This landmark treaty was the first convention to comprehensively address women's rights within political, cultural, economic, social and family life. In numerous countries, the treaty has become a proven and effective tool for improving equity. IT U.S. Law condemns violent crimes motivated by gender and creates a civil rights remedy for victims of those crimes. Although the law provides protection, half of all women, despite religious, ethnic, racial, economic, educational backgrounds will experience physical violence in an intimate relationship. Regardless of their actual immigration status, many battered immigrants believe that they will be deported if they seek help.
Abusers inflict injuries, restrict study, childcare, economic resources and transportation.
Poverty, geographic isolation, lack of transportation, limited educational opportunity, lack of anonymity and traditional attitudes contribute to insufficient legal and social services. A woman running for her life must keep track of the protection order and produce it each time she calls the police for help. The failure to enforce protection orders is perhaps the weakest link in the legal safeguards available to women. Ratification will reinforce U.S. commitment to ending violence against women not matter where they live or travel.