The Optional Protocol opens for signature on 10 December 1999 and will come into force when it has been ratified by 10 countries. She played a key role in drafting the Optional Protocol.
Media are welcome at the event.
Article 1 Discrimination against women means distinctions or restrictions which affects women's enjoyment of human rights on an equal basis with men. The Government will prohibit discrimination, ensure that women are in fact treated equally and abolish laws and customary practices that discriminate against women. The Government will ensure the full development and advancement of women. Article 4 Neither special measures to advance women or measures to protect maternity are discriminatory. Article 5 The Government will challenge ideas of inferiority or stereotyped roles for women and promote the equal responsibility of men in raising children.