CEDAW General Recommendations No.39

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• Create Date March 28, 2025
• Last Updated March 28, 2025

The CEDAW General Recommendation 39 (GR 39) addresses the distinct rights and needs of Indigenous women and girls, recognizing the unique challenges they face—such as discrimination, limited access to resources, and marginalization in policy frameworks. GR 39 was introduced to ensure that CEDAW principles are applied in ways that account for the cultural and socio-economic conditions of Indigenous women, offering governments and civil society a critical tool for improving policies and practices. For Indigenous women across Asia, GR 39 represents a significant opportunity to advance their rights and access justice, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.

The Network of Indigenous Women in Asia (NIWA) was established in 2019 as a regional coalition dedicated to unifying Indigenous women’s organizations and advocating for their rights across the region. With member organizations across Asia, NIWA strives to empower Indigenous women leaders, strengthen advocacy efforts, and foster solidarity to protect Indigenous women’s rights and heritage.

This brief on GR 39 was created for NIWA members and the wider public to understand, engage with, and utilize the Recommendation as an advocacy tool within their communities, national policies, and regional dialogues. Through this resource, we hope to educate Indigenous communities, engage policymakers, and support stakeholders in implementing GR 39’s recommendations. By deepening NIWA members’ understanding of these rights, we anticipate improved policy responses and greater awareness among Indigenous women of their entitlements under CEDAW. This briefer aims to amplify Indigenous women’s voices across Asia, paving the way for a future where they play a central role in shaping policies and securing justice.