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  • Acid Attacks in Bangladesh
  • Women and Girls in Afganistan
  • CEDAW Update
    • by Sarah Rabin, Special Projects Staff

    News stories can educate, inspire and anger, but they rarely give readers information on how to make a difference. Starting in this issue, the National NOW Times will report on some of the most pressing global women's issues and give you the opportunity to take action. Please take the time to write, call, fax or e-mail the agencies listed below. Your time and your words can help change the world.

    Acid Attacks in Bangladesh

    In the first three months of 1999, at least 12 women and girls in Bangladesh were attacked with sulfuric acid thrown in their faces. By the end of the year, authorities estimate that number will be higher than 200. In response to the growing independence of the women in the country, there are men who attack them with the easily-accessible and permanently disfiguring acid for a rejected marriage proposal, dowry dispute, domestic fight or similar reason.

    In 1995, the Bangladesh government enacted legislation that has failed to protect these women. In a study of the 174 attacks from April to December 1998, 10 of the victims were under 10 years of age, 79 were between 11-20 years of age and 20 were between 20-30 years of age. The government is working to strengthen laws to protect these women and see that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

    Women and Girls in Afghanistan

    The campaign to end gender apartheid in Afghanistan continues as the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee introduces a bill condemning it and new reports show that its terrorism is spreading to other countries. S.R.68 regarding the "treatment of women and girls by the Taliban in Afghanistan," was introduced by eight Senators, including Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., at the end of March. The bill urges that neither the United Nations nor the U.S. recognize the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan as long as "gross violations of internationally recognized human rights against women and girls persist."

    CEDAW Update

    The United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) turns 20 this year, and the U.S. Senate still has not ratified this important world treaty. But thanks to the efforts of a coalition in Chicago, Ill., the local legislature will consider passing CEDAW legislation for the city. Mayor Richard Daley has been supportive, and Chicago NOW will offer testimony for the treaty in May. This is encouraging and should inspire grassroots activists to work on passing similar laws in local communities as well as on a national level.

    Return to Summer 1999 National NOW Times
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