Legal Framework and Institutional Mechanisms

Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Accession in 1993. Main reference document for equality between men and women. Through its ratification or accession to it the States are legally bound to adopt all necessary measures, including special temporary measures and laws, in order for women to fully enjoy all their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995). The signatory countries take responsibility for the implementation of the Platform for Action, in which 12 critical areas of concern for the advancement of women are defined.
The Constitution of the Republic of Suriname (1987). No one shall be discriminated against on grounds of birth, sex, race, language, religion, education, political opinion, economic position or any other status. Constitution guarantees equal opportunity in the choice of profession and type of work and forbidding that access to any function or profession shall be prevented or limited on grounds of sex. All employees shall have, independent of their age, sex, race, nationality, religion or political beliefs, the right to: a. remuneration for their work corresponding to quantity, type, quality and experience on the basis of equal pay for equal work; b. the performance of their task under humane conditions to enable self-development; c. safe and healthy working conditions; d. sufficient rest and recreation.
Nationaal Bureau Genderbeleid (National Bureau Gender policy, 2008). It is a Department in the Ministry of Home Affairs. The NBG's primary responsibilities include advising the Government on women's rights and gender issues and monitoring the implementation of activities geared toward gender equality. The NBG initiated the establishment of a gender management system within government that consisted of gender focal points in the different Ministries to help with the implementation and monitoring of the Integral Gender Action Plan, and networking with other partners.
The Institute for Women, Gender and Development Studies (2008). Established in 2008 with the main objective to contribute to gender equality and women's empowerment through the integration of a gender perspective in education and research programs across faculties at the University.