Q&A: Bringing a Case Before the International Court of Justice for the Rights of Afghan Women and Girls
No country has yet been brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for violations of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). This briefing paper addresses a broad range of questions around the feasibility of bringing such a case at the ICJ against Afghanistan's Taliban, for egregious and prevalent violations of women’s and girls’ rights.
These questions explore the ICJ’s role relative to the International Criminal Court, the steps for a potential case, the concern of legitimacy and recognition of the Taliban, the role of Afghan civil society, and possible outcomes. This document also highlights how ICJ litigation could support Afghans through possible legal rulings, bolstering advocacy efforts, influencing international relations, and offering other practical benefits.
This document has been updated from the version first published in April 2024 to include additional questions and information.
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