A rights-based approach requires the creation of an enabling environment in which human rights can be enjoyed by all. The workshop recognized that national laws, culture, tradition and religion can contribute positively to the enjoyment of human rights by affirming enabling aspects, removing barriers, and evolving new practices based on the recognition of women's human rights. All actors at the national level play an important role in creating an enabling environment for the promotion and protection of human rights. Development cooperation and humanitarian activities are key to strengthening the capacities of all actors. It is an approach that is relevant in all countries, cultural contexts and situations.
States have an obligation to respect, protect, promote and fulfil women's enjoyment of human rights.
In order to be realized fully, each right requires a combination of measures by the State ranging from non-interference with women's enjoyment of their human rights to the introduction of specific positive actions to ensure their fulfilment. Bilateral and multilateral entities should play a strategic role in ensuring that their activities promote women's full enjoyment of all human rights. Human rights norms and standards embodied in international and regional treaties and instruments provide the framework for the rights-based approach to gender equality. Policies and programmes should include an assessment of their contribution to, and impact on the realization of women's enjoyment of their human rights. However, strategies and measures for implementing this approach may be diverse.