Legal Framework and Institutional Mechanisms

Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Ratification in 1983. Ratification of Optional Protocol in 2002. 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.
Political Constitution (1999). It establishes that all people are equal before the law. The State shall guarantee equality and equity between men and women in their exercise of the right to work. The State shall acknowledge housework as an economic activity that creates added value and produces wealth and social well-being.
Ministry of People's Power for Women and Gender Equality (2009). It is the governing body for gender mainstreaming in public policies, plans and projects of the Venezuelan State's, in order to ensure women's empowerment and participation in the construction of an equal and fair society.
National Women's Institute (1999). It is the State body that executes public policies emanating from the Ministry of People's Power for Women and Gender Equality (Known in Spanish as Minmujer). It is in charge of promoting and strengthening institutional mechanisms at national level, for the defense of women's human rights.