Women's equal treatment in economic and social life are therefore cornerstones for the full realization of these rights. The legal principles of equality and non-discrimination are at the core of human rights treaties and declarations, and provide the foundation for the enjoyment of human rights. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women elaborates this principle as it applies in all aspects of women's lives. Human rights treaty bodies have provided authoritative interpretations of the principle of equality enshrined in the treaties. In March 2000, the Human Rights Committee gave its interpretation of article 3 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights in a comprehensive new General Comment regarding the equal rights of men and women.
Affirmative action is required.
The State party must not only adopt measures of protection, but also positive measures in all areas so as to achieve the effective and equal empowerment of women. States parties must provide information regarding the actual role of women in society so that the Committee may ascertain what measures, in addition to legislative provisions, have been or should be taken to give effect to these obligations. In its concluding observations following the examination of State party reports, the Human Rights Committee has placed increasing emphasis on the need to adopt appropriate measures to combat discrimination by non-State actors. Indeed, the subordinate role of women in some countries is illustrated by the tragic incidence of pre-natal sex selection and the abortion of female fetuses. Bearing in mind that women are particularly vulnerable in times of internal or international armed conflicts, States parties must take special measures to protect women from rape, abduction and other forms of gender based violence.