Khadija Moalla Sahar Shawa Stein Hansen

An Experience From Kuwait UNDP’s added value and comparative advantage can be easily demonstrated Support to the implementation of the CEDAW Committee recommendations

1.The Why: Technical Reporting Challenges Governments often overwhelmed by too many ratified international instruments. Regular reports required (2 per year on average). The State party government staff members: 1. Might lack the capacity to write the jargon laden reports. 2. Getting the right data, checking facts… 3. Thorough knowledge of international law and human rights principles.

I. The Why: Challenges in front of Governments Government Task Force created for the purpose. TF already burdened by many hindrances and limitations. No proper coordination between the Executive and the Legislative powers Focal points from different ministries under the leadership of different Ministries. Most of the recommendations would call for modifying the legislation.

I. The Why: Doubts about CEDAW Task Force members have Lack of understanding of CEDAW Committee recommendations Conversation going on in the back of their mind: 1. CEDAW is foreign to their culture 2. Undermine their native moral values, beliefs and even religion.

II. The What: Equipped Focal Points: Governments seek the support of UNDP/UN GFP lacks a proper understanding: 1. International law 2. CEDAW convention itself 3. Human Rights approach at large. Bringing in an international consultant: Missing out on the national sensitivities and intricacies. A well equipped GFP is a MUST.

II. The What: New Project Documents and/or Mainstreaming: CEDAW lists of recommendations 1. Mainstreaming CEDAW aspects into: a. Ongoing project documents b. UNDPs governance or gender portfolios. 2. New project documents (or new initiatives) a. Capacity building for CSOs, Media, RLs… b. Capacity building for Government staff… Governments may well be interested in funding

III. The How: Build Trust Be genuine in our will to support countries we serve Host conversations with respect, empathy and willingness to achieve transformation Tackle and transform the negative publicity: Media, Religious & Government Leaders

III. The How: Continuous capacity building: A valuable chance to have minds and hearts open up to new perceptions and even allow for an evolvement of a new world view in the minds of all partners.

III. The How: Be the Convener of a conversation between Government and Civil Society Facilitate a true partnership between Government and CSOs. Team creation & leadership methodologies. The need to shadow reports will not go away but this approach will help build a synthesis between CSOs reporting and government’s one. Media as allies in the advocacy. Technical assistance for the UNCT to jointly support the three State powers.

III. The How: One UN A unique opportunity to the Gender Theme Group and the UNCT to work together to implement CEDAW Recommendations: e.g.: UNCT, UNGTG, bi and multilateral partnerships… e.g. Addressing the needs of women refugees or implementing ILOs work place related conventions such as UNWomen, UNHCR, OHCHR…

Conclusion: a unique opportunity To open the community conversation for more social accountability To provide a practical assessment of the true needs To provide a much needed technical assistance to the government To manifest the UN real added value