CEDAW International Review: Vice Premier Cheng Urges Protection of Equality and Freedom for All Genders

(Taipei, July 13, CNA reporter Kao Hua-chien) The 5th National Report International Review on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) opened today. Vice Premier Cheng Li-chun stated that the government's efforts toward equality will not cease. She expressed hope that this review will allow for a comprehensive assessment of Taiwan's progress in gender equality and future challenges, ensuring Taiwan's democracy truly safeguards a life of equality, freedom, and dignity for every gender.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the '5th CEDAW National Report International Review,' Cheng noted that Taiwan first voluntarily submitted its CEDAW national report to the United Nations in 2009, and this year marks the fifth submission. The Executive Yuan has coordinated with various government agencies to draft the report, incorporating diverse perspectives from civil society organizations, scholars, and experts.

Cheng highlighted that Taiwan will soon mark the 39th anniversary of the lifting of martial law on July 15, and the development of gender equality has been deeply intertwined with the democratization process. From early resistance against private sphere oppression to public advocacy for rights, Taiwan has progressively established a legal foundation for gender equality. This includes reforms such as the 1990s Civil Code amendments, followed by the Gender Equality in Employment Act, Gender Equality in Education Act, and the Anti-Stalking Act. These efforts have advanced gender mainstreaming, strengthened women's rights, and promoted values of diverse gender equality.

According to indices published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Taiwan ranks 10th out of 167 countries. In the OECD's Social Institutions and Gender Index (SIGI), which included Taiwan for the first time, Taiwan ranked 6th out of 179 countries and first in Asia.

The government continues to deepen reforms. For instance, Taiwan introduced a flexible parental leave policy this year, allowing leave to be applied for in daily increments. The proportion of men applying for daily parental leave has steadily increased month by month, surpassing women for two consecutive months by June 2024, reaching 50.7%—a symbolic advancement.

President Lai Ching-te also unveiled the 'New Taiwan Population Strategy' in May, proposing policies based on enhanced public care and gender equality. The government aims to dismantle traditional gender roles in caregiving. These legislative proposals have already been submitted to the Legislative Yuan, and the Executive Yuan hopes to cooperate fully to expedite their passage.

Cheng emphasized that the government's pursuit of equality will not stop. Future efforts will focus on creating supportive workplaces, enabling dual-income and dual-care households, enhancing women's participation in decision-making, narrowing the gender pay gap, and elevating the value of women's labor. Additionally, in response to the digital era, the government will implement Gender Education 2.0 and strengthen prevention of gender-based violence. Special attention will also be given to individuals of all genders, particularly those with intersecting disadvantages, to fully realize gender mainstreaming and inclusive equality.

Cheng stressed that this review offers an opportunity to draw on international experiences, re-examine Taiwan's foundation in gender equality and future challenges, and ensure CEDAW principles are embedded in every aspect of society. This will allow Taiwan's democracy to truly guarantee a life of equality, freedom, and dignity for every gender, thereby ensuring the sustainable development of Taiwan's democracy. (Edited by Su Lung-chi) 1150713