Legal Framework and Institutional Mechanisms

Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Ratification in 1981. 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 (1983). It establishes that all people are equal before the law and prohibits sex-based discrimination. It also establishes equal pay for work of equal pay, irrespective of sex.
Salvadorian Institute for Women's Development (1996). It is the institution responsible for formulating, leading, implementing and overseeing the fulfillment of the National Women's Policy; promoting the full development of women through the enforcement of legal provisions and promoting draft bills and reforms in order to improve women's legal status, especially in relation to labor legislation. It is also liable for fostering effective participation of women's organizations, civil society's entities and the community at large.