From Discrimination to Justice: Reforming Family Laws to Achieve Gender Equality (document, English)
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In preparation for the Commission on the Status of Women 70th session (CSW70), Hyshyama Hamin, Campaign Manager of the Global Campaign for Equality in Family Law, authored the expert paper “From Discrimination to Justice: Reforming Family Laws to Achieve Gender Equality.”
The paper examines how discriminatory family laws continue to shape women’s and girls’ access to fundamental rights, including property ownership, inheritance, marriage and divorce rights, child custody, and economic participation. It argues that inequality within family law systems has far-reaching consequences, influencing women’s safety, autonomy, and ability to secure stable livelihoods—particularly in fragile or conflict-affected contexts.
Drawing on case studies from multiple regions, the paper analyzes the intersectional impact of family laws on women’s rights, including sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), economic justice, and access to legal remedies. It also highlights pathways for legal reform and policy change to advance gender equality within family law frameworks.
Developed as part of the expert papers informing discussions at CSW70, the resource contributes evidence and analysis to global policy conversations on legal reform and gender equality. Organizations participating in the Global Campaign for Equality in Family Law, including ADFM, contributed to the expert paper process.
This publication provides a useful reference for policymakers, advocates, and researchers working to advance gender equality through family law reform.
Source: UN Women (Document Source)