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Algeria71

Reservations:

       Article 2:

       The Government of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria declares that it is prepared to apply the provisions of this article on condition that they do not conflict with the provisions of the Algerian Family Code.

       [...]

       [...]

       Article 16:

       The Government of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria declares that the provisions of article 16 concerning equal rights for men and women in all matters relating to marriage, both during marriage and at its dissolution, should not contradict the provisions of the Algerian Family Code.

       Article 29:

       The Government of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria does not consider itself bound by article 29, paragraph 1, which states that any dispute between two or more Parties concerning the interpretation or application of the Convention which is not settled by negotiation shall, at the request of one of them, be submitted to arbitration or to the International Court of Justice.

       The Government of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria holds that no such dispute can be submitted to arbitration or to the Court of International Justice except with the consent of all the parties to the dispute.

Argentina

Reservation:

       The Government of Argentina declares that it does not consider itself bound by article 29, paragraph 1, of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

Australia2

Reservations:

       "The Government of Australia states that maternity leave with pay is provided in respect of most women employed by the Commonwealth Government and the Governments of New South Wales and Victoria. Unpaid maternity leave is provided in respect of all other women employed in the State of New South Wales and elsewhere to women employed under Federal and some State industrial awards.  Social Security benefits subject to income tests are available to women who are sole parents.

       "The Government of Australia advises that it is not at present in a position to take the measures required by article 11 (2) to introduce maternity leave with pay or with comparable social benefits throughout Australia.

       .....

Declaration:

       "Australia has a Federal Constitutional System in which Legislative, Executive and Judicial Powers are shared or distributed between the Commonwealth and the Constituent States. The implementation of the Treaty throughout Australia will be effected by the Commonwealth State and Territory Authorities having regard to their respective constitutional powers and arrangements concerning their exercise."

Bahamas (The)72

Reservations:

       “The Government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas does not consider itself bound by the provisions of article 2 (a) of the Convention.

       The Government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas does not consider itself bound by the provisions of article 9, paragraph 2, of the Convention.

       The Government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas does not consider itself bound by the provisions of article 29, paragraph 1, of the Convention.”

Bahrain73

1 June 2016

Reservation:

       Having examined the Decree Law Number 5 for the year 2002, issued by His Majesty the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, on 18 Dhul Hijjah 1422 H, corresponding to 2 March 2002, regarding the accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, and Article Two of this Decree which stipulates that the Kingdom of Bahrain makes reservations with respect to the following provisions of the Convention:

       - Article 2 to ensure that its implementation within the bound of the provisions of the Islamic Shariah.

       - Article 9 paragraph 2.

       - Article 15 paragraph 4.

       - Article 16 in so far as it is incompatible with the Islamic Shariah.

       - Article 29 paragraph 1.

       And on the basis of the Decree Law Number 70 for the year 2014, issued by His Majesty the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, on 4 Safar 1436 H, corresponding to 26 November 2014, amending some provisions of the Decree Law Number 5 for the year 2002, regarding the accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, which was approved by both the Council of Representatives on 27 Jumaadal Akhara, 1437 H. corresponding to 5 April 2016, and the Shura Council on 17 Rajab 1437 H, corresponding to 24 April 2016.

       The Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain hereby declares:

       - The Kingdom of Bahrain continues to make reservations with respect to para. 2 of Article 9 and para. 1 of Article 29 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. These Reservations are combined in Article One of the Decree Law Number 70 for the year 2014 which stipulates that “Article Two of the Decree Law Number 5 for the year 2002 regarding the accession to the Convention on the Elimination ofAll Forms of Discrimination against Women, be replaced with the following text:

       Article Two:

       The Kingdom of Bahrain makes reservation with respect to paragraphs 2 of Article 9, and 1 of Article 29 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women”,

       - The Kingdom of Bahrain continues to make reservations with respect to Article 2 and Article 16 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women in a new formulation. The new formula of the reservation states that the implementation of these articles will be “without breaching the provisions of the Islamic Shariah”.

       - The Kingdom of Bahrain continues to make reservation with respect to para. 4 of Article 15 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women in a new formulation which narrows the scope of this reservation. The new formula of the reservation states that the implementation of para. 4 of Artic1e 15 will be “without breaching the provisions of the Islamic Shariah”.

       - Combining the reservations with respect to Article 2, para. 4 of Article 15, and Article 16 in Article Two of the Decree Law Number 70 for the year 20 14, under a new and one formula of Reservation. The new formula states that the implementation of these Articles will be “without breaching the provisions of the Islamic Shariah”, whereas Article Two of the Decree Law Number 70 for the 2014, stipulates that “a new Article is added to the Decree Law Number 5 for the year 2002 regarding the accession of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women under number two bis, the text of which is as follows:

       Article Two bis:

       The Kingdom of Bahrain is committed to implement the provisions of Articles 2, 15 paragraph 4 and 16 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women without breaching the provisions of the Islamic Shariah”.

       ***

       The Government of Bahrain indicated that the modifications do not imply an expansion of the scope of the original reservations and that they constitute editorial amendments that do not place any limitations on Bahrain’s commitments made upon accession to the Convention.

Bangladesh4

       "The Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh does not consider as binding upon itself the provisions of article 2, [... and ...] 16 (1) (c) as they conflict with  Sharia law based on Holy Quran and Sunna."

Brazil7

Reservation made upon signature and confirmed upon ratification:

       "... Brazil does not consider itself bound by article 29, paragraph 1, of the above-mentioned Convention."

Brunei Darussalam

Reservations:

       "The Government of Brunei Darussalam expresses its reservations regarding those provisions of the said Convention that may be contrary to the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam and to the beliefs and principles of Islam, the official religion of Brunei Darussalam and, without prejudice to the generality of the said reservations, expresses its reservations regarding paragraph 2 of Article 9 and paragraph 1 of Article 29 of the Convention."

Chile

Upon signature:

       Declaration:

       The Government of Chile has signed this Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, mindful of the important step which this document represents, not only in terms of the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women, but also in terms of their full and permanent integration into society in conditions of equality.

       The Government is obliged to state, however, that some of the provisions of the Convention are not entirely compatible with current Chilean legislation.

       At the same time, it reports the establishment of a Commission for the Study and Reform of the Civil Code, which now has before it various proposals to amend,  inter alia , those provisions which are not fully consistent with the terms of the Convention.

China

Declaration made upon signature and confirmed upon ratification:

       The People's Republic of China does not consider itself bound by paragraph 1 of article 29 of the Convention.

Cuba

Reservation:

       The Government of the Republic of Cuba makes a specific reservation concerning the provisions of article 29 of the Convention inasmuch as it holds that any disputes that may arise between States Parties should be resolved through direct negotiations through the diplomatic channel.

Democratic People's Republic of Korea17,18

Reservations:

       On 23 November 2015, the Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea notified the Secretary-General of its decision to withdraw the reservations to paragraph (f) of article 2 and paragraph 2 of article 9 of the Convention. The remaining reservation reads as follows: “The Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea does not consider itself bound by the provisions article 29 of [the Convention].”

Egypt20

Reservations made upon signature and confirmed upon ratification:

       [.....]

       In respect of article 16

       Reservation to the text of article 16 concerning the equality of men and women in all matters relating to marriage and family relations during the marriage and upon its dissolution, without prejudice to the Islamic  Sharia's  provisions whereby women are accorded rights equivalent to those of their spouses so as to ensure a just balance between them. This is out of respect for the sacrosanct nature of the firm religious beliefs which govern marital relations in Egypt and which may not be called in question and in view of the fact that one of the most important bases of these relations is an equivalency of rights and duties so as to ensure complementary which guarantees true equality between the spouses. The provisions of the  Sharia lay down that the husband shall pay bridal money to the wife and maintain her fully and shall also make a payment to her upon divorce, whereas the wife retains full rights over her property and is not obliged to spend anything on her keep. The  Sharia therefore restricts the wife's rights to divorce by making it contingent on a judge's ruling, whereas no such restriction is laid down in the case of the husband.

       In respect of article 29

       The Egyptian delegation also maintains the reservation contained in article 29, paragraph 2, concerning the right of a State signatory to the Convention to declare that it does not consider itself bound by paragraph 1 of that article concerning the submission to an arbitral body of any dispute which may arise between States concerning the interpretation or application of the Convention. This is in order to avoid being bound by the system ofarbitration in this field.

Reservation made upon ratification:

       General reservation on article 2

       The Arab Republic of Egypt is willing to comply with the content of this article, provided that such compliance does not run counter to the Islamic Sharia.

El Salvador

Upon signature:

       Upon ratification of the Convention, the Government of El Salvador will make the reservation provided for in article 29.

Upon ratification:

       Reservation:

       With reservation as to the application of the provision of article 29, paragraph 1.

Ethiopia

Reservation:

       Socialist Ethiopia does not consider itself bound by paragraph 1 of article 29 of the Convention.

France22

       Upon signature:

       Declaration:

       The Government of the French Republic declares that article 9 of the Convention must not be interpreted as precluding the application of the second paragraph of article 96 of the code of French nationality.

        [All other declarations and reservations were confirmed in substance upon ratification.]

       Upon ratification:

       Declarations:

       The Government of the French Republic declares that the preamble to the Convention in particular the eleventh preambular paragraph contains debatable elements which are definitely out of place in this text.

       The Government of the French Republic declares that the term "family education" in article 5 (b) of the Convention must be interpreted as meaning public education concerning the family and that, in any event, article 5 will be applied subject to respect for article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and article 8 of the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.

       The Government of the French Republic declares that no provision of the Convention must be interpreted as prevailing over provisions of French legislation which are more favourable to women than to men.

       Reservation:

       ...

       Article 29

       The Government of the French Republic declares, in pursuance of article 29, paragraph 2, of the Convention, that it will not be bound by the provisions of article 29, paragraph 1.

Germany23,24

Declaration:

       The right of peoples to self-determination, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and in the International Covenants of 19 December 1966, applies to all peoples and not only to those living 'under alien and colonial domination and foreign occupation'. All peoples thus have the inalienable right freely to determine their political status and freely to pursue their economic, social and cultural development. The Federal Republic of Germany would be unable to recognize as legally valid an interpretation of the right to self-determination which contradicts the unequivocal wording of the Charter of the United Nations and of the two International Covenants of 19 December 1966 on Civil and Political Rights and on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. It will interpret the 11th paragraph of the Preamble accordingly.

India

Declarations and reservations made upon signature and confirmed upon ratification:

       Declarations:

       "i) With regard to articles 5 (a) and 16 (1) of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Government of the Republic of India declares that it shall abide by and ensure these provisions in conformity with its policy of non-interference in the personal affairs of any Community without its initiative and consent.

       "ii) With regard to article 16 (2) of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Government of the Republic of India declares that though in principle it fully supports the principle of compulsory registration of marriages, it is not practical in a vast country like India with its variety of customs, religions and level of literacy."

       Reservation:

       "With regard to article 29 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Government of the Republic of India declares that it does not consider itself bound by paragraph 1 of this article."

Indonesia

       "The Government of the Republic of Indonesia does not consider itself bound by the provisions of article 29, paragraph 1 of this Convention and takes the position that any dispute relating to the interpretation or application of the Convention may only be submitted to arbitration or to the International Court of Justice with the agreement of all the parties to the dispute."

Iraq74

Reservations:

       1. Approval of and accession to this Convention shall not mean that the Republic of Iraq is bound by the provisions of article 2, paragraphs (f) and (g), nor of article 16 of the Convention. The reservation to this last-mentioned article shall be without prejudice to the provisions of the Islamic Shariah according women rights equivalent to the rights of their spouses so as to ensure a just balance between them. Iraq also enters a reservation to article 29, paragraph 1, of this Convention with regard to the principle of international arbitration in connection with the interpretation or application of this Convention.

       2. This approval in no way implies recognition of or entry into any relations with Israel.

Ireland28

Reservations:

       ....

Articles 16, 1 (d) and (f)

       Ireland is of the view that the attainment in Ireland of the objectives of the Convention does not necessitate the extension to men of rights identical to those accorded by law to women in respect of the guardianship, adoption and custody of children born out of wedlock and reserves the right to implement the Convention subject to that understanding.

Articles 11 (1) and 13 (a)

       Ireland reserves the right to regard the Anti-Discrimination (Pay) Act, 1974 and the Employment Equality Act 1977 and other measures taken in implementation of the European Economic Community standards concerning employment opportunities and pay as sufficient implementation of articles 11,1 (b), (c) and (d).

       Ireland reserves the right for the time being to maintain provisions of Irish legislation in the area of social security which are more favourable to women than men.

Israel

Reservations:

       "1. The State of Israel hereby expresses its reservation with regard to article 7 (b) of the Convention concerning the appointment of women to serve as judges of religious courts where this is prohibited by the laws of any of the religious communities in Israel. Otherwise, the said article is fully implemented in Israel, in view of the fact that women take a prominent part in all aspect of public life.

       "2. The State of Israel hereby expresses its reservation with regard to article 16 of the Convention, to the extent that the laws on personal status which are binding on the various religious communities in Israel do not conform with the provisions of that article."

Declaration:

       "3. In accordance with paragraph 2 of article 29 of the Convention, the State of Israel hereby declares that it does not consider itself bound by paragraph 1 of that article."

Italy

Upon signature:

       Reservation:

       Italy reserves the right to exercise, when depositing the instrument of ratification, the option provided for in article 19 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties of 23 May 1969.

Jamaica30

       The Government of Jamaica declares that it does not consider itself bound by the provisions of article 29, paragraph 1, of the Convention."

Jordan75

Declaration made upon signature and confirmed upon ratification:

       Jordan does not consider itself bound by the following provisions:

       1. Article 9, paragraph 2;

       2. ...

       3. Article 16, paragraph (1) (c), relating to the rights arising upon the dissolution of marriage with regard to maintenance and compensation;

       4. Article 16, paragraph (1) (d) and (g).

Kuwait31,76

Reservations:

       ...

2. Article 9, paragraph 2

       The Government of Kuwait reserves its right not to implement the provision contained in article 9, paragraph 2, of the Convention, inasmuch as it runs counter to the Kuwaiti Nationality Act, which stipulates that a child's nationality shall be determined by that of his father.

3. Article 16 (f)

       The Government of the State of Kuwait declares that it does not consider itself bound by the provision contained in article 16 (f) inasmuch as it conflicts with the provisions of the  Islamic  Shariah , Islam being the official religion of the State.

       4. The Government of Kuwait declares that it is not bound by the provision contained in article 29, paragraph 1.

Lebanon19

Reservations:

       The Government of the Lebanese Republic enters reservations regarding article 9 (2), and article 16 (1) (c) (d) (f) and (g) (regarding the right to choose a family name).

       In accordance with paragraph 2 of article 29, the Government of the Lebanese Republic declares that it does not consider itself bound by the provisions of paragraph 1 of that article.

Lesotho31,32

Reservation:

       "The Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho declares that it does not consider itself bound by article 2 to the extent that it conflicts with Lesotho's constitutional stipulations relative to succession to the throne of the Kingdom of Lesotho and law relating to succession to chieftainship.”

Libya33

Reservation:

       1. Article 2 of the Convention shall be implemented with due regard for the peremptory norms of the Islamic  Shariah relating to determination of the inheritance portions of the estate of a deceased person, whether female or male.

       2. The implementation of paragraph 16 (c) and (d) of the Convention shall be without prejudice to any of the rights guaranteed to women by the Islamic  Shariah .

Liechtenstein34

Reservation concerning article 1:

       "In the light of the definition given in article 1 of the Convention, the Principality of Liechtenstein reserves the right to apply, with respect to all the obligations of the Convention, article 3 of the Liechtenstein Constitution."

Malaysia31,36,58,78

Reservations:

       ...The Government of Malaysia declares that Malaysia’s accession is subject to the understanding that the provisions of the Convention do not conflict with the provisions of the Islamic Sharia’ law and the Federal Constitution of Malaysia.  With regard thereto, further, the Government of Malaysia does not consider itself bound by the provisions of articles 9 (2), 16 (1) (a), 16 (1) (c), 16 (1) (f) and 16 (1) (g) of the aforesaid Convention.

       In relation to article 11 of the Convention, Malaysia interprets the provisions of this article as a reference to the prohibition of discrimination on the basis of equality between men and women only.”

Maldives31,37,38

23 June 1999

Reservations:

       Maldives made reservations to sub-paragraphs (a), (c), (d) and (f) of paragraph 1 of Article 16.

Malta

Reservations:

       "A. Article 11

       The Government of Malta interprets paragraph 1 of article II, in the light of provisions of paragraph 2 of article 4, as not precluding prohibitions, restrictions, or conditions on the employment of women in certain areas, or the work done by them, where this is considered necessary or desirable to protect the health and safety of women or the human foetus, including such prohibitions, restrictions or conditions imposed in consequence of other international obligations of Malta.

       "B. Article 13

       (i) The Government of Malta reserves the right, notwithstanding anything in the Convention, to continue to apply its tax legislation which deems, in certain circumstances, the income of a married woman to be the income of her husband and taxable as such.

       (ii) The Government of Malta reserves the right to continue to apply its social security legislation which in certain circumstances makes certain benefits payable to the head of the household which is, by such legislation, presumed to be the husband.

       "C. Articles 13, 15, 16

       While the Government of Malta is committed to remove, in as far as possible, all aspects of family and property law which may be considered as discriminatory to females, it reserves the right to continue to apply present legislation in that regard until such time as the law is reformed and during such transitory period until those laws are completely superseded.

       "D. Article 16

       The Government of Malta does not consider itself bound by sub-paragraph (e) of paragraph (1) of article 16 in so far as the same may be interpreted as imposing an obligation on Malta to legalize abortion."

Mauritania39

Reservation:

       Having seen and examined the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 18 December 1979, have approved and do approve it in each and every one of its parts which are not contrary to Islamic Sharia and are in accordance with our Constitution.

Partial withdrawal of reservation

       On 25 July 2014, the Government of Mauritania informed the Secretary-General that it partially withdraws its general reservation made upon accession, which shall continue to apply in respect of articles 13 (a) and 16 of the Convention.

Mauritius40

Reservation:

       "The Government of Mauritius does not consider itself bound by paragraph 1 of article 29 of the Convention, in pursuance of paragraph 2 of article 29."

Mexico

Upon signature:

       Declaration:

       In signing  ad referendum  the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, which the General Assembly opened for signature by States on 18 December 1979, the Government of the United Mexican States wishes to place on record that it is doing so on the understanding that the provisions of the said Convention, which agree in all essentials with the provisions of Mexican legislation, will be applied in Mexico in accordance with the modalities and procedures prescribed by Mexican legislation and that the granting of material benefits in pursuance of the Convention will be as generous as the resources available to the Mexican State permit.

Micronesia (Federated States of)79

Reservations:

       "1.  The Government of the Federated States of Micronesia advises that it is not at present in a position to take the measures either required by Article 11 (1) (d) of the Convention to enact comparable worth legislation, or by Article 11 (2) (b) to enact maternity leave with pay or with comparable social benefits throughout the nation;

       2.  The Government of the Federated States of Micronesia, in its capacity as trustee of the heritage of diversity within its States under Article V of its Constitution, reserves the right not to apply the provisions of Articles 2 (f), 5, and 16 to the succession of certain well-established traditional titles, and to marital customs that divide tasks or decision-making in purely voluntary or consensual private conduct; and

       3.  The Government of the Federated States of Micronesia does not consider itself bound by the provisions of Article 29 (1) of the Convention, and takes the position that any dispute relating to the interpretation or application of the Convention may only be submitted to arbitration or to the International Court of Justice with the agreement of all parties to the dispute."

Monaco80

Declarations:

       1. The implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women does not affect the validity of conventions concluded with France.

       2. The Principality of Monaco deems that the aims of the Convention are to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and to guarantee every individual, irrespective of gender, equality before the law, when the aforementioned aims are in line with the principles stipulated in the Constitution.

       3. The Principality of Monaco declares that no provision in the Convention can be interpreted as impeding the provisions of the laws and regulations of Monaco that are more favourable to women than to men.

Reservations:

       1. The ratification of the Convention by the Principality of Monaco shall have no effect on the constitutional provisions governing the succession to the throne.

       2. The Principality of Monaco reserves the right not to apply the provisions of Article 7, paragraph b, of the Convention regarding recruitment to the police force.

       3. The Principality of Monaco does not consider itself bound by the provisions of Article 9 which are not compatible with its nationality laws.

       4. [...]

       5. The Principality of Monaco does not consider itself bound by Article 16, paragraph 1 (e), to the extent that the latter can be interpreted as forcing the legalization of abortion or sterilization.

       6. The Principality of Monaco reserves the right to continue to apply its social security laws which, in certain circumstances, envisage the payment of certain benefits to the head of the household who, according to this legislation, is presumed to be the husband.

       7. The Principality of Monaco declares, in conformity with the provisions of Article 29, paragraph 2, that it does not consider itself bound by the provisions of the first paragraph of this article.

Morocco81

Declarations:

       1. With regard to article 2:

       The Government of the Kingdom of Morocco express its readiness to apply the provisions of this article provided that:

       - They are without prejudice to the constitutional requirement that regulate the rules of succession to the throne of the Kingdom of Morocco;

       - They do not conflict with the provisions of the Islamic Shariah. It should be noted that certain of the provisions contained in the Moroccan Code of Personal Status according women rights that differ from the rights conferred on men may not be infringed upon or abrogated because they derive primarily from the Islamic Shariah, which strives, among its other objectives, to strike a balance between the spouses in order to preserve the coherence of family life.

       2. With regard to article 15, paragraph 4:

       The Government of the Kingdom of Morocco declares that it can only be bound by the provisions of this paragraph, in particular those relating to the right of women to choose their residence and domicile, to the extent that they are not incompatible with articles 34 and 36 of the Moroccan Code of Personal Status.

Reservations:

       3. With regard to article 29:

       The Government of the Kingdom of Morocco does not consider itself bound by the first paragraph of this article, which provides that any dispute between two or more States Parties concerning the interpretation or application of the present Convention which is not settled by negotiation shall, at the request of one of them, be submitted to arbitration.

       The Government of the Kingdom of Morocco is of the view that any dispute of this kind can only be referred to arbitration by agreement of all the parties to the dispute.

Netherlands (Kingdom of the)

Declaration:

       "During the preparatory stages of the present Convention and in the course of debates on it in the General Assembly the position of the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands was that it was not desirable to introduce political considerations such as those contained in paragraphs 10 and 11 of the preamble in a legal instrument of this nature. Moreover, the considerations are not directly related to the achievement of total equality between men and women. The Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands considers that it must recall its objections to the said paragraphs in the preamble at this occasion."

New Zealand44,45,46

Reservation:

       ...

       "The Government of the Cook Islands reserves the right not to apply article 2 (f) and article 5 (a) to the extent that the customs governing the inheritance of certain Cook Islands chief titles may be inconsistent with those provisions."

Niger49

Reservations:

       Article 2, paragraphs (d) and (f)

       The Government of the Republic of the Niger expresses reservations with regard to article 2, paragraphs (d) and (f), concerning the taking of all appropriate measures to abolish all customs and practices which constitute discrimination against women, particularly in respect of succession.

       Article 5, paragraph (a)

       The Government of the Republic of the Niger expresses reservations with regard to the modification of social and cultural patterns of conduct of men and women.

       Article 15, paragraph 4

       The Government of the Republic of the Niger declares that it can be bound by the provisions of this paragraph, particularly those concerning the right of women to choose their residence and domicile, only to the extent that these provisions refer only to unmarried women.

       Article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (e) and (g)

       The Government of the Republic of the Niger expresses reservations concerning the above-referenced provisions of article 16, particularly those concerning the same rights and responsibilities during marriage and at its dissolution, the same rights to decide freely and responsibly on the number and spacing of their children, and the right to choose a family name.

       The Government of the Republic of the Niger declares that the provisions of article 2, paragraphs (d) and (f), article 5, paragraphs (a) and (b), article 15, paragraph 4, and article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (e) and (g), concerning family relations, cannot be applied immediately, as they are contrary to existing customs and practices which, by their nature, can be modified only with the passage of time and the evolution of society and cannot, therefore, be abolished by an act of authority.

       Article 29

       The Government of the Republic of the Niger expresses a reservation concerning article 29, paragraph 1, which provides that any dispute between two or more States concerning the interpretation or application of the present Convention which is not settled by negotiation shall, at the request of one of them, be submitted to arbitration.

       In the view of the Government of the Niger, a dispute of this nature can be submitted to arbitration only with the consent of all the parties to the dispute.

Declaration

       The Government of the Republic of the Niger declares that the term "family education" which appears in article 5, paragraph (b), of the Convention should be interpreted as referring to public education concerning the family, and that in any event, article 5 would be applied in compliance with article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Oman82

Reservations:

       1. All provisions of the Convention not in accordance with the provisions of the Islamic sharia and legislation in force in the Sultanate of Oman;

       2. Article 9, paragraph 2, which provides that States Parties shall grant women equal rights with men with respect to the nationality of their children;

       3. [...]

       4. Article 16, regarding the equality of men and women, and in particular subparagraphs (a), (c), and (f) (regarding adoption).

       5. The Sultanate is not bound by article 29, paragraph 1, regarding arbitration and the referral to the International Court of Justice of any dispute between two or more States which is not settled by negotiation.

Pakistan31,51,59

Declaration:

       "The accession by [the] Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the [said Convention] is subject to the provisions of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan."

Reservation:

       "The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan declares that it does not consider itself bound by paragraph 1 of article 29 of the Convention."

Qatar83

Reservations:

       1. Article 2 (a) in connection with the rules of the hereditary transmission of authority, as it is inconsistent with the provisions of article 8 of the Constitution.

       2. Article 9, paragraph 2, as it is inconsistent with Qatar’s law on citizenship.

       3. Article 15, paragraph 1, in connection with matters of inheritance and testimony, as it is inconsistent with the provisions of Islamic law.

       4. Article 15, paragraph 4, as it is inconsistent with the provisions of family law and established practice.

       5. Article 16, paragraph 1 (a) and (c), as they are inconsistent with the provisions of Islamic law.

       6. Article 16, paragraph 1 (f), as it is inconsistent with the provisions of Islamic law and family law. The State of Qatar declares that all of its relevant national legislation is conducive to the interest of promoting social solidarity.

       ...

       3. In accordance with article 29, paragraph 2, of the Convention, the State of Qatar declares, under the terms of that text, that it does not consider itself bound by paragraph 1 of that article.

       Declaration:

       1. The Government of the State of Qatar accepts the text of article 1 of the Convention provided that, in accordance with the provisions of Islamic law and Qatari legislation, the phrase “irrespective of their marital status” is not intended to encourage family relationships outside legitimate marriage. It reserves the right to implement the Convention in accordance with this understanding.

       2. The State of Qatar declares that the question of the modification of “patterns” referred to in article 5 (a) must not be understood as encouraging women to abandon their role as mothers and their role in child-rearing, thereby undermining the structure of the family.

Republic of Korea52

Upon signature:

       Reservation:

       "1. The Government of the Republic of Korea does not consider itself bound by the provisions of article 9 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women of 1979.

       "2. Bearing in mind the fundamental principles as embodied in the said Convention, the Government of the Republic of Korea has recently established the Korea Women's welfare and social activities. A committee under the chairmanship of the prime minister will shortly be set up to consider and coordinate overall policies on women.

       "3. The Government of the Republic of Korea will make continued efforts to take further measures in line with the provisions stipulated in the Convention."

Upon ratification:

       Reservation:

       "The Government of the Republic of Korea, having examined the said Convention, hereby ratifies the Convention considering itself not bound by the provisions of [...] sub-paragraph [...] (g) of paragraph 1 of Article 16 of the Convention."

Saudi Arabia

Reservations:

       “1. In case of contradiction between any term of the Convention and the norms of islamic law, the Kingdom is not under obligation to observe the contradictory terms of the Convention.

       2. The Kingdom does not consider itself bound by paragraphe 2 of article 9 of the Convention and paragraph 1 of article 29 of the Convention.”

Singapore31,55,56,59

Reservations:

       (1) In the context of Singapore's multiracial and multi-religious society and the need to respect the freedom of minorities to practice their religious and personal laws, the Republic of Singapore reserves the right not to apply the provisions of articles 2, paragraphs (a) to (f), and article 16, paragraphs 1(a), 1(c), 1(h), and article 16, paragraph 2, where compliance with these provisions would be contrary to their religious or personal laws.

       (2) [...]

       (3) [...] Singapore considers that legislation in respect of article 11 is unnecessary for the minority of women who do not fall within the ambit of Singapore's employment legislation.

       (4) The Republic of Singapore declares, in pursuance of article 29, paragraph 2 of the Convention that it will not be bound by the provisions of article 29, paragraph 1.

Spain

Declaration:

       The ratification of the Convention by Spain shall not affect the constitutional provisions concerning succession to the Spanish crown.

Switzerland60

       .....

(c) Reservation concerning article 15, paragraph 2, and article 16, paragraph 1 (h):

       Said provisions shall be applied subject to several interim provisions of the matrimonial regime (Civil Code, articles 9 (e) and 10, final section).

Syrian Arab Republic

Reservation:

       ..... subject to reservations to article 2; article 9, paragraph 2, concerning the grant of a woman's nationality to her children; article 15, paragraph 4, concerning freedom of movement and of residence and domicile; article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g), concerning equal rights and responsibilities during marriage and at its dissolution with regard to guardianship, the right to choose a family name, maintenance and adoption; article 16, paragraph 2, concerning the legal effect of the betrothal and the marriage of a child, inasmuch as this provision is incompatible with the provisions of the Islamic Shariah; and article 29, paragraph 1, concerning arbitration between States in the event of a dispute.

       The accession of the Syrian Arab Republic to this Convention shall in no way signify recognition of Israel or entail entry into any dealings with Israel in the context of the provisions of the Convention..

Thailand61

Declaration:

       The Royal Thai Government wishes to express its understanding that the purposes of the Convention are to eliminate discrimination against women and to accord to every person, men and women alike, equality before the law, and are in accordance with the principles prescribed by the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Reservation:

       3. The Royal Thai Government does not consider itself bound by the provisions of article 29, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

Trinidad and Tobago

Reservation made upon signature and confirmed upon ratification:

       "The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago declares that it does not consider itself bound by article 29 (1) of the said Convention, relating to the settlement of disputes."

Tunisia84

Declaration:

       The Tunisian Government declares that it shall not take any organizational or legislative decision in conformity with the requirements of this Convention where such a decision would conflict with the provisions of chapter I of the Tunisian Constitution.

Türkiye85

Reservations:

       " With respect to article 29, paragraph 1

       In pursuance of article 29, paragraph 2 of the Convention, the Government of the Republic of Turkey declares that it does not consider itself bound by paragraph 1 of this article."

       [.....]

United Arab Emirates62

Reservations:

       The United Arab Emirates makes reservations to articles 2 (f), 9, 15 (2), 16 and 29 (1) of the Convention, as follows:

       Article 2 (f)

       The United Arab Emirates, being of the opinion that this paragraph violates the rules of inheritance established in accordance with the precepts of the Shariah, makes a reservation thereto and does not consider itself bound by the provisions thereof.

       Article 9

       The United Arab Emirates, considering the acquisition of nationality an internal matter which is governed, and the conditions and controls of which are established, by national legislation makes a reservation to this article and does not consider itself bound by the provisions thereof.

       Article 15 (2)

       The United Arab Emirates, considering this paragraph in conflict with the precepts of the Shariah regarding legal capacity, testimony and the right to conclude contracts, makes a reservation to the said paragraph of the said article and does not consider itself bound by the provisions thereof.

       Article 16

       The United Arab Emirates will abide by the provisions of this article insofar as they are not in conflict with the principles of the Shariah.  The United Arab Emirates considers that the payment of a dower and of support after divorce is an obligation of the husband, and the husband has the right to divorce, just as the wife has her independent financial security and her full rights to her property and is not required to pay her husband's or her own expenses out of her own property.  The Shariah makes a woman's right to divorce conditional on a judicial decision, in a case in which she has been harmed.

       Article 29 (1)

       The United Arab Emirates appreciates and respects the functions of this article, which provides:

       "Any dispute between two or more States Parties concerning the interpretation or application of the present Convention which is not settled by negotiation shall, at the request of one of them, be submitted to arbitration. If within six months...the parties are unable..." [any one of those parties] "may refer the dispute to the International Court of Justice..." This article, however, violates the general principle that matters are submitted to an arbitration panel by agreement between the parties. In addition, it might provide an opening for certain States to bring other States to trial in defence of their nationals; the case might then be referred to the committee charged with discussing the State reports required by the Convention and a decision might be handed down against the State in question for violating the provisions of the Convention.  For these reasons the United Arab Emirates makes a reservation to this article and does not consider itself bound by the provisions thereof.

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland63,64

Upon signature:

       "The Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland declare that it is their intention to make certain reservations and declarations upon ratification of the Convention.

Upon ratification:

       "A. On behalf of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland:

       (a) The United Kingdom understands the main purpose of the Convention, in the light of the definition contained in Article 1, to be the reduction, in accordance with its terms, of discrimination against women, and does not therefore regard the Convention as imposing any requirement to repeal or modify any existing laws, regulations, customs or practices which provide for women to be treated more favourably than men, whether temporarily or in the longer term; the United Kingdom's undertakings under Article 4, paragraph 1, and other provisions of the Convention are to be construed accordingly."

       ...

       (c) In the light of the definition contained in Article 1, the United Kingdom's ratification is subject to the understanding that none of its obligations under the Convention shall be treated as extending to the succession to, or possession and enjoyment of, the Throne, the peerage, titles of honour, social precedence or armorial bearings, or as extending to the affairs of religious denominations or orders or any act done for the purpose of ensuring the combat effectiveness of the Armed Forces of the Crown."

       ...

       "Article 9

       The British Nationality Act 1981, which was brought into force with effect from January 1983, is based on principles which do not allow of any discrimination against women within the meaning of Article 1 as regards acquisition, change or retention of their nationality or as regards the nationality of theirchildren.  The United Kingdom's acceptance of Article 9 shall not, how ever, be taken to invalidate the continuation of certain temporary or transitional provisions which will ctinue in force beyond that date."

       ...

       "Article 11

       ...

       "The United Kingdom reserves the right to apply all United Kingdom legislation and the rules of pension schemes affecting retirement pensions, survivors' benefits and other benefits in relation to death or retirement (including retirement on grounds of redundancy), whether or not derived from a Social Security scheme."

       "This reservation will apply equally to any future legislation which may modify or replace such legislation, or the rules of pension schemes, on the understanding that the terms of such legislation will be compatible with the United Kingdom's obligations under the Convention."

       "The United Kingdom reserves the right to apply the following provisions of United Kingdom legislation concerning the benefits specified:

       ...

       b) increases of benefits for adult dependants under sections 44 to 47, 49 and 66 of the Social Security Act 1975 and under sections 44 to 47, 49 and 66 of the Social Security (Northern Ireland) Act 1975;

       ...

       The United Kingdom reserves the right to apply any non-discriminatory requirement for a qualifying period of employment or insurance for the application of the provisions contained in Article 11 (2)."

       "Article 15

       ...

       "In relation to Article 15, paragraph 3, the United Kingdom understands the intention of this provision to be that only those terms or elements of a contract or other private instrument which are discriminatory in the sense described are to be deemed null and void, but not necessarily the contract or instrument as a whole."

       "Article 16

       As regards sub-paragraph 1 (f) of Article 16, the United Kingdom does not regard the reference to the paramountcy of the interests of the children as being directly relevant to the elimination of discrimination against women, and declares in this connection that the legislation of the United Kingdom regulating adoption, while giving a principal position to the promotion of the children's welfare, does not give to the child's interests the same paramount place as in issues concerning custody over children."

       ...

       "B. On behalf of the Isle of Man, the British Virgin Islands, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, and the Turks and Caicos Islands:

       [Same reservations as the one made on behalf of the United Kingdom under paragraphs A (a), (c), and (d) except that in the of case d) it applies to the territories and their laws).]

       Article 1

       [Same reservation as the one made in respect of the United Kingdom except with regard to the absence of a reference to United Kingdom legislation.]

       Article 2

       [Same reservation as the one made in respect of the United Kingdom except that reference is made to the laws of the territories, and not the laws of the United Kingdom.]

       Article 9

       [Same reservation as the one made in respect of the United Kingdom.]

       Article 11

       [Same reservation as those made in respect of the United Kingdom except that a reference is made to the laws of the territories, and not to the laws of the United Kingdom.]

       "Also, as far as the territories are concerned, the specific benefits listed and which may be applied under the provisions of these territories' legislation are as follows:

       a) social security benefits for persons engaged in caring for a severely disabled person;

       b) increases of benefit for adult dependants;

       c) retirement pensions and survivors' benefits;

       d) family income supplements.

       "This reservation will apply equally to any future legislation which may modify or replace any of the provisions specified in sub-paragraphs (a) to (d) above, on the understanding that the terms of such legislation will be compatible with the United Kingdom's obligations under the Convention."

       "The United Kingdom reserves the right to apply any non-discriminatory requirement for a qualifying period of employment or insurance for the application of the provisions contained in Article 11 (2)."

       Article 13, 15 and 16

       [Same reservations as those made on behalf the United Kingdom.]

Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)

Reservation made upon ratification confirming in substance the reservation made upon signature:

       Venezuela makes a formal reservation with regard to article 29, paragraph 1, of the Convention, since it does not accept arbitration or the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice for the settlement of disputes concerning the interpretation or application of this Convention.

Viet Nam

Reservation:

       In implementing this Convention, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam will not be bound by the provisions of paragraph 1 article 29.

Yemen70

       The Government of the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen declares that it does not consider itself bound by article 29, paragraph 1, of the said Convention, relating to the settlement of disputes which may arise concerning the application or interpretation of the Convention.

Austria

26 October 1994

With regard to the reservations made by Maldives upon accession:

       "The reservation made by the Maldives is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and is therefore inadmissible under article 19 (c) of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties and shall not be permitted, in accordance with article 28 (2) of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. Austria therefore states that this reservation cannot alter or modify in any respect the obligations arising from the Convention for any State Party thereto."

5 June 1997

With regard to the declaration made by Pakistan upon accession:

       "Austria is of the view that a reservation by which a State limits its responsibilities under the Convention in a general and unspecified manner by invoking internal law creates doubts as to the commitment of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan with its obligations under the Convention, essential for the fulfillment of its object and purpose.

       It is in the common interests of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become Parties are respected, as to their object and purpose, by all Parties and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       Austria is further of the view that a general reservation of the kind made by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, which does not clearly specify the provisions of the Convention to which it applies and the extent of the derogation therefrom, contributes to undermining the basis of international treaty law.

       Given the general character of this reservation a final assessment as to its admissibility under international law cannot be made without further clarification.

       According to international law a reservation is inadmissible to the extent as its application negatively affects the compliance by a State with its obligations under the Convention essential for the fulfillment of its object and purpose.

       Therefore, Austria cannot consider the reservation made by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan as admissible unless the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, by providing additional information or through subsequent practice, ensures that the reservation is compatible with the provisions essential for the implementation of the object and purpose of the Convention.

       This view by Austria would not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between Pakistan and Austria."

20 February 1998

With regard to reservations made by Lebanon upon accession:

        [Same objection, mutatis mutandis, as the one made for Pakistan.]

21 August 2001

With regard to reservations made by Saudi Arabia upon ratification:

       "Austria has examined the reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women made by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in its note to the Secretary-General of 7 September 2000.

       The fact that the reservation concerning any interpretation of the provisions of the Convention that is incompatible with the norms of Islamic law does not clearly specify the provisions of the Convention to which it applies and the extent of the derogation therefrom raises doubts as to the commitment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Convention.

       Given the general character of this reservation a final assessment as to its admissibility under international law cannot be made without further clarification.  Until the scope of the legal effects of this reservation is sufficiently specified by the Government of Saudi Arabia, Austria considers the reservation as not affecting any provision the implementation of which is essential to fulfilling the object and purpose of the Convention.  In Austria's view, however, the reservation in question is inadmissible to the extent that its application negatively affects the compliance by Saudi Arabia with its obligations under the Convention essential for the fulfilment of its object and purpose.  Austria does not consider the reservation made by the Government of Saudi Arabia as admissible unless the Government of Saudi Arabia, by providing additional information or through subsequent practice, ensures that the reservation is compatible with the provisions essential for the implementation of the object and purpose of the Convention.

       As to the reservation to Paragraph 2 of Article 9 of the Convention Austria is of the view that the exclusion of such an important provision of non-discrimination is not compatible with object and purpose of the Convention.  Austria therefore objects to this reservation.

       This position, however, does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between Saudi Arabia and Austria."

With regard to reservations made by the Democcratic Republic of Korea upon accession:

       "Austria has examined the reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women made by the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in its note to the Secretary General of 27 February 2001.

       Taking into consideration that according to Paragraph 2 of Article 28 of the Convention, reservations which are incompatible with the objective and purpose of the Convention are not acceptable, Austria objects to the reservations in respect of Paragraph f of Article 2 and Paragraph 2 of Article 9.

       Both Paragraphs refer to basic aspects of the Convention, that are legislation to abolish existing discrimination against women and a specific form of discrimination, such as the nationality of children.

       This position, however, does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and Austria."

13 February 2002

With regard to the reservation made by Mauritania upon accession:

       "The Government of Austria has examined the reservation to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women made by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania in its note to the Secretary-General of 5 June 2001.

       The Government of Austria considers that, in the absence of further clarification, this reservation raises doubts as to the degree of commitment assumed by Mauritania in becoming a party to the Convention since it refers to the contents of Islamic Sharia and to existing national legislation in Mauritania.  The Government of Austria would like to recall that, according to art. 28 (2) of the Convention as well as customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty shall not be permitted.

       It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       For these reasons, the Government of Austria objects to this reservation made by the Government of Mauritania.

       This position, however, does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between Mauritania and Austria."

31 March 2003

With regard to the reservation made by Bahrain upon accession:

       "The Government of Austria has examined the reservation to the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women made by the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain in its note to the Secretary-General of 18 June 2002, regarding articles 2, 9(2), 15(4) and 16.

       The reservation to articles 9(2) and 15(4), if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex.  This is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Austria further considers that, in the absence of further clarification, the reservation to articles 2 and 16 which does not clearly specify the extent of Bahrain's derogation from the provisions in question raises doubts as to the degree of commitment assumed by Bahrain in becoming a party to the Convention since it refers to the contents of Islamic Sharia.

       The Government of Austria would like to recall that, according to art. 28(2) of the Convention as well as customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty shall not be permitted.

       It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       For these reasons, the Government of Austria objects to this reservation made by the Government of Bahrain.

       This position, however, does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between Bahrain and Austria."

14 August 2003

With regard to the reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession:

       "The Government of Austria has examined the reservation made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women regarding article 2, article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, article 16, paragraphs 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g) and article 16, paragraph 2.

       The Government of Austria finds that the reservations to article 2, article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, article 16, paragraphs 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g), if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex. This is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Austria further considers that, in the absence of further clarification, the reservation to article 16, paragraph 2, which refers to the contents of Islamic Sharia, does not clearly specify the extent of the reservation and therefore raises doubts as to the degree of commitment assumed by the Syrian Arab Republic in becoming a party to the Convention.

       The Government of Austria would like to recall that, according to article 28 (2) of the Convention as well as customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty shall not be permitted.

       It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       For these reasons, the Government of Austria objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This position, however, does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Syrian Arab Republic and Austria."

5 October 2005

With regard to the reservations made by the United Arab Emirates upon accession:

       "The Government of Austria has examined the reservation made by the Government of the United Arab Emirates upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women regarding articles 2 (f), 9, 15 (2), 16 and 29 (1).

       The Government of Austria finds that the reservations to article 2 (f), article 9, article 15 (2) and article 16, if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex.  This is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Astria would like to recall that, according to article 28 (2) of the Convention as well as customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty shall not be permitted.

       It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations underthe treaties.

       For these reasons, the Government of Austria objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the United Arab Emirates to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This position, however, does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the United Arab Emirates and Austria."

18 December 2006

With regard to the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "The Government of Austria has examined the reservations made by the Government of Brunei Darussalam upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       The Government of Austria finds that the reservation to article 9, paragraph 2 would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex.  This is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Austria further considers that, in the absence of further clarification, the reservation "regarding those provisions of the said Convention that may be contrary to the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam and to the beliefs and principles of Islam" does not clearly specify its extent and therefore raises doubts as to the degree of commitment assumed by Brunei Darussalam in becoming a party to the Convention.

       The Government of Austria would like to recall that, according to article 28, paragraph 2 of the Convention as well as customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty shall not be permitted.

       It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       For these reasons, the Government of Austria objects to the aforementioned reservations made by Brunei Darussalam to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This position however does not preclude the entry into force in its enirety of the Convention between Brunei Darussalam and Austria."

5 January 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Oman upon accession:

       "The Government of Austria has examined the reservations made by the Government of the Sultanate of Oman upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       The Government of Austria finds that the reservations to article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, and article 16 would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex.  This is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Austria further considers that, in the absence of further clarification, the reservation to "all provisions of the Convention not in accordance with the provisions of the Islamic sharia and legislation in force in the Sultanate of Oman" does not clearly specify its extent and therefore raises doubts as to the degree of commitment assumed by the Sultanate of Oman in becoming a party to the Convention.

       The Government of Austria would like to recall that, according to article 28, paragraph 2 of the Convention as well as customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (Art. 19 sub-paragraph c), a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty shall not be permitted.

       It is in the commoninterest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are requested as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       For these reasons, the Government of Austria objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This position however does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Sultanate of Oman and Austria."

12 February 2010

With regard to the reservations made by Qatar upon accession:

       “The Government of Austria has examined the reservations made by the State of Qatar upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       The Government of Austria finds that the reservations to article 9 paragraph 2, article 15 paragraphs 2 and 4, article 16 paragraphs 1a, 1c and 1f would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex. These reservations affect essential obligations arising from the Convention and their observance is necessary in order to achieve the purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Austria would like to recall that, according to article 28 paragraph 2 of the Convention as well as customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (article 19 sub-paragraph c), a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty shall not be permitted.

       It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       For these reasons, the Government of Austria objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the State of Qatar to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This position however does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the State of Qatar and Austria.”

24 June 2011

With regard to the reservations made by Maysia upon accession:

       “The Government of Austria has examined the modification of the reservations made by Malaysia to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women as notified on 19 July 2010.

       In the view of Austria a reservation should clearly define for the other States Parties to the Convention the extent to which the reserving State has accepted the obligations of the Convention.  A reservation which consists of a general reference to constitutional provisions and Islamic Sharia law without specifying its implications does not do so.  The Government of Austria therefore objects to this general reservation.

       The Government of Austria further finds that the reservations to articles 9 (2), 16 (1) a, 16 (1) f and 16 (1) g, if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex.  This is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  The Government of Austria therefore objects to these reservations.

       This position, however, does not affect the application of the Convention in its entirety between Austria and Malaysia.”

Canada

25 October 1994

With regard to the reservations made by Maldives upon accession:

       "In the view of the Government of Canada, this reservation is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention (article 28, paragraph 2). The Government of Canada therefore enters its formal objection to this reservation. This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention as between Canada and the Republic of Maldives."

14 June 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "Canada has carefully examined the reservation formulated by Brunei Darussalam when it acceded, on 24 May 2006, to the Convention on the Elimination of Al Forms of Discrimination against Women, adopted in New York on 18 December 1979.

       Canada notes that the reservation formulated with respect to article 9, paragraph 2, concerns a fundamental provision of the Convention and is therefore incompatible with the object and purpose of that instrument.

       In addition, the reservation makes the implementation of the Convention's provisions contingent upon their compatibility with the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam and the beliefs and principles of Islam, the official religion of Brunei Darussalam.  The Government of Canada notes that such general reservation of unlimited scope and undefined character does not clearly  define for the other States Parties to the Convention the extent to which Brunei Darussalam has accepted the obligations of the Convention and creates serious doubts as to the commitment of the State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention.  Accordingly, the Government of Canada considers this reservation to be incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become party are respected, as to their object and purpose by all parties and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       Canada recalls that, under article 28, paragraph 2, of the Convention, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       Under customary international law, as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty is not permitted.

       In consequence, Canada objects to the reservation formulated by Brunei Darussalam with respect to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Canada and Brunei Darussalam.  The Convention shall enter into force in its entirety, without Brunei Darussalam benefiting from its reservation."

25 July 2017

With regard to the modification of reservations by Bahrain upon accession:

       “The Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations presents its compliments to the Secretary-General of the United Nations and has the honour to refer to the Secretary-General's note C.N.578.2016.TREATIES-IV.8 (Depositary Notification), dated August 5, 2016, which communicated that the Secretary-General has received from the Kingdom of Bahrain a modification of reservations made upon accession with respect to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       The Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations hereby informs that the

       Government of Canada notes that the Kingdom of Bahrain continues to make reservations to articles 2, 9 (paragraph 2), 15 (paragraph 4), 16 and 29 (paragraph 1) of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       The Government of Canada has given careful consideration to the Kingdom of Bahrain's reservations to Articles 2 and 16, which subordinate the provisions of the Convention to Islamic Shariah. The Government of Canada notes that these reservations consist of a general reference to religious and national law, without specifying the content or scope of these restrictions. The Government of Canada notes that these reservations do not clearly define to other Parties to the Convention the extent to which the Kingdom of Bahrain commits itself to the Convention. As such, the Government of Canada considers that these reservations constitute a reservation of general scope that may cast doubts on the full commitment of the Kingdom of Bahrain to fulfil its obligations under the Convention.

       The Government of Canada considers Articles 2 and 16 to be core provisions of the Convention. As such, reservations to those articles, whether lodged for national, traditional, religious or cultural reasons, are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and therefore impermissible.

       The reservations to articles 9 (paragraph 2) and 15 (paragraph 4) exclude the obligations under those provisions to eliminate discrimination against women on the basis of sex. They are therefore contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention and, pursuant to article 28 (paragraph 2), not permitted.

       The Government of Canada recalls that by acceding to the Convention, a State commits itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination against women in all its forms and manifestations.

       For these reasons, the Government of Canada objects to the reservations made by the Kingdom of Bahrain to articles 2, 9 (paragraph 2), 15 (paragraph 4), and 16 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Kingdom of Bahrain and Canada.”

Denmark

3 July 1990

With regard to the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya upon accession:

       "The Government of Denmark has taken note of the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya when acceding [to the said Convention]. In the view of the Government of Denmark this reservation is subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its internal law as justification for failure to perform a treaty."

2 November 2000

With regard to the reservations to article 2, paragraphs (d) and (f), article 5, paragraph (a), article 15, paragraph (4) and article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (e) and (g) made by Niger upon accession:

       “The Government of Denmark finds that the reservations made by the Government of Niger are not in conformity with the object and purpose of the Convention.  The provisions in respect of which Niger has made reservations cover fundamental rights of women and establish key elements for the elimination of discrimination against women.  For this reason, the Government of Denmark objects to the said reservations made by the Government of Niger.

       The Convention remains in force in its entirety between Niger and Denmark.

       It is the opinion of the Government of Denmark, that no time limit applies to objections against reservations, which are inadmissible under international law.

       The Government of Denmark recommends the Government of Niger to reconsider its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women."

10 August 2001

With regard to the reservations made by Saudi Arabia upon ratification:

       "The Government of Denmark has examined the reservations made by the Government of Saudi Arabia upon ratification on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women as to any interpretation of the provisions of the Convention that is incompatibleith the norms of Islamic law.

       The Government of Denmark finds that the general reservation with reference to the provisions of Islamic law are of unlimited scope and undefined character.  Consequently, the Government of Denmark considers the said reservations as being incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and accordingly inadmissible and without effect under international law.

       The Government of Denmark furthermore notes that the reservation to paragraph 2 of article 9 of the Convention aims to exclude one obligation of non-discrimination which is the aim of the Convention and therefore renders this reservation contrary to the essence of the Convention.

       The Government of Denmark therefore objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       These objections shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention in its entirety between Saudi Arabia and Denmark.

       The Government of Denmark recommends the Government of Saudi Arabia to reconsider its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women."

21 February 2002

With regard to the reservation made by Mauritania upon accession:

       "The Government of Denmark has examined the reservations made by the Government of Mauritania upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women as to any interpretation of the provisions of the Convention that is incompatiblewith the norms of Islamic law and the Constitution in Mauritania.

       The Government of Denmark finds that the general reservation with reference to the provisions of Islamic law and the Constitution are of unlimited scope and undefined character.  Consequently, the Government of Denmark considers the said reservation as being incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and accordingly inadmissible andwithout effect under international law.

       The Government of Denmark therefore objects to the aforesaid reservation made by the Government of Mauritania to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention in its entirety between Mauritania and Denmark.

       The Government of Denmark recommends the Government of Mauritania to reconsider its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women."

With regard to the reservations made by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea upon accession:

       "The Government of Denmark has examined the reservations made by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea upon accession to the Convention on [the] Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women in respect of paragraph (f) of article 2 and paragraph 2 of article 9.

       The Government of Denmark finds that the reservation to paragraph (f) of article 2 aims at excluding the Democratic People's Republic of Korea from the obligation to adopt necessary measures, including those of a legislative character, to eliminate any form of discrimination against women.  This provision touches upon a key element for effective elimination of discrimination against women.

       The Government of Denmark furthermore notes that the reservation toparagraph 2 of article 9 of the Convention aims to exclude an obligation of non-discrimination, which is the aim of the Convention.

       The Government of Denmark finds that the reservations made by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea are not in conformity with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Denmark therefore objects to the said reservation made by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

       The Government of Denmark recommends the Government of [the] Democratic People's Republic of Korea to reconsider its reservations to the Convention.

       The Convention on [the] Elimination of All Forms Discrimination Against Women remains in force in its entirety between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and Denmark."

28 February 2003

With regard to the reservation made by Bahrain upon accession:

       "The Government of Denmark has examined the reservations made by the Government of Bahrain upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women regarding article 2, paragraph 2 of article 9, paragraph 4 of article 15 and article 16.

       The Government of Denmark finds that the reservation to articles 2 and 16 with reference to the provisions of Islamic Sharia is of unlimited scope and undefined character.  Consequently, the Government of Denmark considers the said reservations as being incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and accordingly inadmissible and without effect under international law.

       The Government of Denmark furthermore notes that the reservations to paragraph 2 of article 9 and to paragraph 4 of article 15 of the Convention seek to exclude an obligation of non-discrimination, which is the aim of the Convention.  The Government of Denmark finds thatthese reservations made by the Government of Bahrain are not in conformity with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Denmark therefore objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the Government of Bahrain to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women. This shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention in its entirety between Bahrain and Denmark.

       The Government of Denmark recommends the Government of Bahrain to reconsider its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women."

27 May 2003

With regard to the reservation made by the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession:

       "The Government of Denmark has examined the reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women regarding article 2, article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, article 16, paragraphs 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g) and article 16, paragraph 2 in its note of 7 April 2003, to the Secretary-General of the United Nations distributed under reference No. C.N.267.2003.TREATIES-6.

       The Government of Denmark finds that the reservation to article 2 seeks to evade the obligation of non-discrimination, which is the aim of the Convention.  The Government of Denmark is of the view that a general reservation to one of the core articles of the Convention raises doubts as to the commitment of the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic to fulfil its obligations under the Convention.

       The Government of Denmark furthermore notes that the reservations to article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, article 16, paragraphs 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g) and article 16, paragraph 2, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention. It should be borne in mind that the principles of equal rights of men and women and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of the purposes of the organization, as well as in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

       The Government of Denmark finds that these reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic are not in conformity with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Denmark recalls that according to article 28, paragraph 2 of the Convention, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of Denmark therefore objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       This shall not prelude the entry into force of the Convention in its entirety between the Syrian Arab Republic and Denmark.

       The Government of Denmark recommends the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic to reconsider its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women."

6 October 2006

With regard to the reservations made by Oman upon accession:

       "The Government of Denmark has examined the reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women regarding article 9 (2), 15 (4), 16 (a, c, f), and all provisions of the Convention not in accordance with the principles of the Islamic Sharia.

       The Government of Denmark finds that the general reservation with reference to the provisions of the Islamic Sharia is of unlimited scope and undefined character.  The Government of Denmark furthermore notes that the reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman to article 9 (2), 15 (4), and 16 (a, c, f) would inevitable result in the discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  Consequently, the Government of Denmark considers the said reservations to be incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and accordingly inadmissible and without effect under international law.

       The Government of Denmark wishes to recall that, according to article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of Denmark therefore objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women.  This shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention in its entirety between Oman and Denmark.

       The Government of Denmark recommends the Sultanate of Oman to reconsider its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women."

With regard to the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "The Government of Denmark has examined the reservations made by the Government of Brunei Darussalam upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women regarding article 9 (2) and all provisions of the Convention not in accordance with the principles of Islam.

       The Government of Denmark finds that the general reservation made by the Government of Brunei Darussalam with reference to the principles of Islam is of unlimited scope and undefined character. The Government of Denmark furthermore notes that the reservation to article 9 (2) would inevitably result in the discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  Consequently, the Government of Denmark considers the said reservations to be incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and accordingly inadmissible and without effect under international law.

       The Government of Denmark wishes to recall that, according to article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of Denmark therefore objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the Government of Brunei Darussalam to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women.  This shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention in its entirety between Brunei Darussalam and Denmark.

       The Government of Denmark recommends the Government of Brunei Darussalam to reconsider its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women.”

Finland

8 June 1990

With regard to the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya upon accession (see also objection made on 16 October 1996, hereinafter, with regard to the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya upon accession, as modified on 5 July 1995):

       "The Government of Finland has examined the contents of the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya and considers the said reservation as being incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.  The Government of Finland therefore enters its formal objection to this reservation.

       "This objection is not an obstacle to the entry into force of the said Convention between Finland and the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya."

5 May 1994

With regard to the reservations made by Maldives upon accession:

       In the view of the Government of Finland, the unlimited and undefined character of the said reservations create serious doubts about the commitment of the reserving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention. In their extensive formulation, they are clearly contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention. Therefore, the Government of Finland objects to such reservations.

       The Government of Finland also recalls that the said reservations are subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its domestic law as a justification for failure to perform its treaty obligations.

       The Government of Finland does not, however, consider that this objection constitutes an obstacle to the entry into force of the Convention between Finland and Maldives."

17 January 1996

With regard to the reservations made by Kuwait upon accession:

       "The Government of Finland recalls that by acceding to the Convention, a State commits itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination, in all its forms and manifestations, against women. In particular, aricle 7 requires States Parties to undertake actions to eliminate discrimination against women in the political and public life of the country. This is a fundamental provision of the Convention the implementation of which is essential to fulfilling its object and purpose.

       Reservations to article 7 (a) and article 9 paragraph 2 are both subject to the general principle of the observance of treaties according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its internal law as justification for its failure to perform its treaty obligations. It is in the common interest of States that contracting parties to international treaties are prepared to undertake the necessary legislative changes in order to fulfill the object and purpose of the treaty.

       Furthermore, in the view of the Government of Finland, the unlimited and undefined character of the reservation to article 16 (f) leaves open to what extent the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and therefore creates serious doubts about the commitment of the reserving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention. Reservations of such unspecified nature may contribute to undermining the basis of international human rights treaties.

       In their present formulation the reservations are clearly incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and therefore inadmissible under article 28 paragraph 2, of the said Convention. Therefore, the Government of Finland objects to these reservations. The Government of Finland further notes that the reservations made by the Government of Kuwait are devoid oflegal effect.

       The Government of Finland recommends the Government of Kuwait to reconsider its reservations to the [said] Convention."

16 October 1996

With regard to the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya upon accession, as modified (see objection under 8 June 1990 and note 28):

       "A reservation which consists of a general reference to religious law without specifying i contents does not clearly define to the other Parties of the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and therefore may cast doubts about the commitment of the reserving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention. Such a reservation is also, in the view of the Government of Finland, subject to the general principle of the observance of treaties according to which a Party may not invoke the provisions of its internal law as justification for failure to perform a treaty."

With regard to the reservations made by Malaysia upon accession:

       "The reservations made by Malaysia, consisting of a general reference to religious and national law without specifying the contents thereof and without stating unequivocally the provisions the legal effect of which may be excluded or modified, do not clearly define to the other Parties of the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and therefore creates serious doubts about the commitment of the reserving State to fulfill its obligations under the Convention. Reservations of such unspecified nature may contribute to undermining the basis of international human rights treaties.

       The Government of Finland also recalls that the reservations of Malaysia are subject to the general principles of observance of treaties according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its internal law as justification for failure to perform its treaty obligations. It is in the common interest of States that Parties to international treaties are prepared to take the necessary legislative changes in order to fulfil the object and purpose of the treaty.

       Furthermore, the reservations made by Malaysia, in particular to articles 2 (f) and 5 (a), are two fundamental provisions of the Convention the implementation of which is essential to fulfilling its object and purpose.

       The Government of Finland considers that in their present formulation the reservations made by Malaysia are clearly incompatible with the object and purpose of the said Convention and therefore inadmissible under article 28, paragraph 2, of the said Convention. In view of the above, the Government of Finland objects to these reservations and notes that they are devoid of legal effect."

1 November 1996

With regard to the reservations made by Lesotho upon ratification:

        [Same objection, mutatis mutandis, as the one made for Malaysia.]

21 November 1996

With regard to the reservations made by Singapore upon accession:

       [ Same objection, mutatis mutandis, as the one made for Malaysia .]

6 June 1997

With regard to the declaration made by Pakistan upon accession:

        [Same objection, mutatis mutandis, as the one made for Malaysia.]

24 October 2000

With regard to the reservations made by Niger  upon accession:

       “ The Government of Finland notes that the reservations [..] are not in conformity with the object and purpose of the Convention. By acceding to the Convention, a State commits itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination against women, in all its forms and manifestations.  This includes taking appropriate measures, including legislation, to modify or abolish i.e. customs and practices which constitute discrimination against women.

       As it appears evident that the Government of the Republic of Niger will not apply the Convention with a view to fulfilling its treaty obligations to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and submits reservations to some of the most essential provisions of the Convention, the above-mentioned reservations are in contradiction with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland recalls Part VI, Article 28 of the Convention according to which reservations incompible with object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations made by the Government of Niger to the Convention.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Niger and Finland.  The Convention will thus become operative between the two states without benefitting from the reservations."

8 October 2002

With regard to the reservations made by Saudi Arabia upon ratification:

       "The Government of Finland has examined the contents of the reservations made by the Government of Saudi Arabia to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       The Government of Finland recalls that by acceding to the Convention, a State commits itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination, in all its forms and manifestations, against women.

       A reservation which consistsof a general reference to religious law and national law without specifying its contents, as the first part of the reservation made by Saudi Arabia, does not clearly define to other Parties to the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and therefore creates serious doubts as to the commitment of the reserving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention.

       Furthermore, reservations are subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its domestic law as justification for a failure to perform its treaty obligations.

       As the reservation to Paragraph 2 of Article 9 aims to exclude one of the fundamental obligations under the Convention, it is the view of the Government of Finland that the reservation is not compatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland also recalls Part VI, Article 28 of the Convention according to which reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations made by the Government of Saudi Arabia to the Convention.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Saudi Arabia and Finland.  The Convention will thus become operative between the two States without Saudi Arabia benefiting from the reservations."

5 March 2002

With regard to the reservations made by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea upon accession:

       "The Government of Finland has carefully examined the contents of the reservations made by the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       The Government of Finland recalls that by acceding to the Convention, a State commit itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination, in all its forms and manifestations, against women.

       The Government of Finland notes that the reservation to paragraph (f) of Article 2 aims at excluding the Democratic People's Republic of Korea from the obligations to adopt necessary measures, including those of a legislative character, to eliminate any form of discrimination against women.  This provision touches upon a key element for effective elimination of discrimination against women.

       The Government of Finland further notes that the reservation to paragraph 2 of Article 9 of the Convention aims to exclude an obligation of non-discrimination, which is the aim of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland also recalls Part VI, Article 28 of the Convention according to which reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland finds that the reservations made by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea are not in conformity with the object and purpose of the Convention and therefore objects to the said reservations.

       This oection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the People's Democratic Republic of Korea and Finland.  The Convention will thus become operative between the two States without the People's Democratic Republic of Korea benefiting from the reservations."

20 May 2002

With regard to the reservation made by Mauritania upon accession:

       "The Government of Finland has carefully examined the contents of the reservation made by the Government of Mauritania to the Convention on the Elimination of allForms of Discrimination Against Women.

       The Government of Finland notes that a reservation which consists of a general reference to religious or other national law without specifying its contents does not clearly define to other Parties to the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and therefore creates serious doubts as to the commitment of the reserving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention.

       Furthermore, reservations are subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its domestic law as justification for a failure to perform its treaty obligations.

       The Government of Finland recalls Part VI, Article 28 of the Convention according to which reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservation made by the Government of Mauritania to the Convention.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Mauritania and Finland.  The Convention will thus become operative between the two states without Mauritania benefiting from the reservations."

10 March 2003

With regard to the reservations made by Bahrain upon accession:

       "The Government of Finland has carefully examined the contents of the reservations made by the Government of Bahrain to Article 2, paragraph 2 of Article 9, paragraph 4 of Article 15 and to Article 16 of the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       The Government of Finland notes that a reservation which consists of a general reference to religious or other national law without specifying its contents does not clearly define to other Parties to the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and therefore creates serious doubts as to the commitment of the receiving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention.  Such reservations are subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its domestic law as justification for a failure to perform its treaty obligations.

       The Government of Finland further notes that the reservations made by Bahrain, addressing some of the most essential provisions of the Convention, and aiming to exclude some of the fundamental obligations under it, are in contradiction with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland also recalls Part VI, Article 28 of the Convention according to which reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations made by the Government of Bahrain to the Convention.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Bahrain and Finland.  The Convention will thus become operative between the two states without Bahrain benefiting from its reservations."

17 June 2003

With regard to the reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession:

       "The Government of Finland has carefully examined the contents of the reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic to Article 2, paragraph 2 of Article 9, paragraph 4 of Article 15 and to paragraphs 1(c), (d), (f) and (g) of Article 16 of the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       The Government of Finland notes that areservation which consists of a general reference to religious or other national law without specifying its contents does not clearly define for other Parties to the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and therefore creates serious doubts as to the commitment of the reserving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention.  Such reservations are subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its domestic law as justification for a failure to perform its treaty obligations.

       The Government of Finland further notes that the reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic, addressing some of the most essential provisions of the Convention, and aiming to exclude some of the fundamental obligations under it, are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland also recalls Part VI, Article 28, of the Convention, according to which reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the afore-mentioned reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic to the Convention.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Syrian Arab Republic and Finland.  The Convention will thus become operative between the two states without the Syrian Arab Republic benefiting from its reservations.”

7 September 2005

With regard to the reservations made by Micronesia (Federated States of) upon accession:

       "The Government of Finland has carefully examined the contents of the reservations made by the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia to paragraph (f) of Article 2, Article 5, paragraphs 1 (d) and 2 (b) of Article 11 and Article 16 othe Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       The Government of Finland recalls that by acceding to the Convention, a State commit itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination, in all its forms and manifestations, against women.

       The Government of Finland notes that the reservations made by Micronesia, addressing some of the most essential provisions of the Convention, and aiming to exclude the obligations under those provisions, are in contradiction with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland also recalls Part VI, Article 28 of the Convention according to which reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the ab0ve-mentioned reservations made by the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia to the Convention.  This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Micronesia and Finland.  The Convention will thus become operative between the two states without Micronesia benefiting from its reservations".

15 November 2005

With regard to the reservations made by the United Arab Emirates upon accession:

       "The Government of Finland has carefully examined the contents of the reservations made by the Government of the United Arab Emirates to paragraph (f) of Article 2, Article 9, paragraph (2) of Article 15 and Article 16 of the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women,

       The Government of Finland recalls that by acceding to the Convention, a State commits itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination, in all its forms and manifestations, against women.

       The Government of Finland notes that a reservation which consists of a general reference to religious or other national law without specifying its contents does not clearly define to other Parties to the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and creates serious doubts as to the commitment of the receiving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention. Such reservations are, furthermore, subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its domestic law as justification for a failure to perform its treaty obligations.

       The Government of Finland notes that the reservations made by the United Arab Emirates, addressing some of the most essential provisions of the Convention, and aiming to exclude the obligations under those provisions, are in contradiction with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland also recalls Part VI, Article 28 of the Convention according to which reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations made by the Government of the United Arab Emirates to the Convention.  This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the United Arab Emirates and Finland. The Convention will thus become operative between the two states without the United Arab Emirates benefiting from its reservations."

27 February 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Oman upon accession:

       The Government of Finland has carefully examined the contents of the general reservation made by the Government of Oman to all provisions of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the specific reservations concerning paragraph 2 of Article 9, paragraph 4 of Article 15 and paragraphs 1 (a), 1 (c) and 1 (f) of Article 16 of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland recalls that by acceding to the Convention, a State commits itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination, in all its forms and manifestations, against women.

       The Government of Finland notes that a reservation which consists of a general reference to religious or other national law without specifying its contents does not clearly define to other Parties to the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and creates serious doubts as to the commitment of the receiving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention. Such reservations are, furthermore, subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its domestic law as justification for a failure to perform its treaty obligations.

       The Government of Finland also notes that the specific reservations made by Oman, addressing some of the most essential provisions of the Convention, and aiming to exclude the obligations under those provisions, are in contradiction with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland also recalls Part VI, Article 28 of the Convention, according to which reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations made by the Government of Oman to the Convention. This objection does not preclude the entry into forceof the Convention between Oman and Finland. The Convention will thus become operative between the two States without Oman benefiting from its reservations.

With regard to the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       The Government of Finland has carefully examined the contents of the general reservation made by the Government of Brunei Darussalam to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the specific reservation concerning paragraph 2 of Article 9 of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland recalls that by acceding to the Convention, a State commits itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination, in all its forms and manifestations, against women.

       The Government of Finland notes that a reservation which consists of a general reference to religious or other national law without specifying its contents does not clearly define to other Parties to the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and creates serious doubts as to the commitment of the receiving State to fulfil its obligations under the Convention. Such reservations are, furthermore, subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of its domestic law as justification for a failure to perform its treaty obligations.

       The Government of Finland also notes that the specific reservation made by Brunei Darussalam concerning paragraph 2 of Article 9 aims to exclude one of the fundamental obligations under the Convention and is therefore in contradiction with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland also recalls Part VI, Article 28 of the Convention, according to which reservationsincompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations made by the Government of Brunei Darussalam to the Convention. This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Brunei Darussalam and Finland. The Convention will thus become operative between the two States without Brunei Darussalam benefiting from its reservations.

29 April 2010

With regard to the reservations made by Qatar upon accession:

       “The Government of Finland has carefully examined the reservation made by Qatar upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, done at New York on 18 December 1979.

       The Government of Finland recalls that by acceding to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, a State commits itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination against women, in all its forms and manifestations.  This includes taking appropriate measures, including legislation, to modify or abolish i.e. customs and practices which constitute discrimination against women.

       The Government of Finland further recalls that under Article 28 of the Convention, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention are not permitted, which is a general principle of treaty law codified in Article 19 (c) of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.

       The Government of Finland notes that a reservation which consists of a general reference to religious or other national law, without specifying its contents, does not clearly define to other States Parties to the Convention the extent to which the reserving State commits itself to the Convention and creates serious doubts as to the commitment of the reserving State to fulfill its obligations under the Convention.  Such reservations are, furthermore, subject to the general principle of treaty interpretation according to which a party may not invoke the provisions of domestic law as justification for a failure to perform its treaty obligations.

       The Government of Finland finds that the reservations made by Qatar to Articles 9 (2), 15(1), 15 (4), 16 (1) (a) and (c) as well as Article 16 (1) (f) of the Convention address some of the most essential provisions and aim at excluding the obligations to eliminate discrimination against women under those provisions.  The Government considers that these reservations in practice lead to discrimination against women and finds them manifestly incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Finland therefore objects to the said reservations made by Qatar.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Qatar and Finland.”

Germany23

       The Federal Republic of Germany considers that the reservations made by Egypt regarding article 2, article 9, paragraph 2, and article 16, by Bangladesh regarding article 2, article 13 (a) and article 16, paragraph 1 (c), and (f), by Brazil regarding article 15, paragraph 4, and article 16, paragraph 1 (a), (c), (g) and (h), by Jamaica regarding article 9, paragraph 2, by the Republic of Korea regarding article 9 and article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g), and by Mauritius regarding article 11, paragraph 1 (b)  and (d), and article 16, paragraph 1 (g), are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention (article 28, paragraph 2) and therefore objects to them.  In relation to the Federal Republic of Germany, they may not be invoked in support of a legal practice which does not pay due regard to the legal status afforded to women and children in the Federal Republic of Germany in conformity with the above-mentioned articles of the Convention.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention as between Egypt, Bangladesh, Brazil, Jamaica, the Republic of Korea, Mauritius and the Federal Republic of Germany.

Objections of the same nature were also formulated by the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany in regard to reservations made by various states, as follows:

       i) 15 October 1986:  In respect of reservations formulated by the Government of Thailand concerning article 9, paragraph 2, article 10, article 11, paragraph 1 (b), article 15, paragraph 3 and article 16; (The Federal Republic of Germany also holds the view that the reservation made by Thailand regarding article 7 of the Convention is likewise incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention because for all matters which concern national security it reserves in a general and thus unspecific manner the right of the Royal Thai Government to apply the provisions only within the limits established by national laws, regulations and practices).

       ii)15 October 1986:  In respect of reservations and some declarations formulated by the Government of Tunisia concerning article 9, paragraph 2 and article 16, as well as the declaration concerning article 15, paragraph 4.

       iii) 3 March 1987:  In respect of reservations made by the Government of Turkey to article 15, paragraphs 2 and 4, and article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g); in respect of reservations made by the Government of Iraq with regard to article 2, paragraphs (f) and (g), article 9 and article 16.

       iv) 7 April 1988:  In respect of the first reservation made by Malawi.

       v) 20 June 1990:  In respect of the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya.

       vi) 24 October 1994: In respect of the reservations made by Maldives.

       vii) 8 October 1996: In respect of the reservations made by Malaysia.

       viii) 28 May 1997: In respect of the declaration made by Pakistan.

       ix) 19 June 1997: In respect of the reservation made by Algeria.

19 January 2001

With regard to the reservations made by Saudi Arabia upon ratification:

       “The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany is of the view that the reservation, with regard to compatibility of CEDAW rules with Islamic law, raises doubts as to the commitment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to CEDAW.  The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany considers this reservation to be incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany notes furthermore that the reservation to Paragraph 2 of article 9 of CEDAW aims to exclude one obligation of non-discrimination which is so important in the context of CEDAW as to render this reservation contrary to the essence of the Convention.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany therefore objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Convention on Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This objection does not preclude t entry into force of the Convention between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."

2 October 2001

With regard to the reservations made by the Decmocatic People’s Republic of Korea upon accession:

       "The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany has examined the reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) made by the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea upon its accession to the Convention.  The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany is of the view that the reservations to article 2 paragraph (f) and article 9 paragraph 2 of CEDAW are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention, for they aim at excluding the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's obligations in respect of two basic aspects of the Convention.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany therefore objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the Convention on all Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea."

14 March 2002

With regard to the reservation made by Mauritania upon accession:

       "The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany has examined the reservation to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women made by the Government of Mauritania at the time of its accession to the Convention.  The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany is of the view that the reservation with regard to the compatibility of the rules of the Convention with the precepts of Islamic Sharia and the Constitution of Mauritania raises doubts as to the commitment of Mauritania to fulfil its obligations under the Convention.  The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany consers this reservation to be incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.  Therefore the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany objects to the aforesaid reservation made by the Government of Mauritania to the Convention.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Federal Republic of Germany and Mauritania."

18 February 2003

With regard to the reservations made by Bahrain upon accession:

       "The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany has examined the reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women made by the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain at the time of accession to the Convention.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany is of the view that the reservations with regard to the compatibility of the rules of articles 2 and 16 of the Convention with the precepts of Islamic Shariah raises doubts as to the commitment of the Kingdom of Bahrain to fulfil its obligations under the Convention.  These reservations are therefore incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The reservations to article 9 paragraph 2 and article 15 paragraph 4, if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       According to article 28 paragraph 2 of the Convention reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       Therefore, the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the Convention.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Kingdom of Bahrain."

25 August 2003

With regard to the reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession:

       "The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany has examined the reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women in respect of Article 2; Article 9, paragraph 2; Article 15, paragraph 4; Article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g); and Article 16, paragraph 2.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany finds that the aforesaid reservations would allow to limit the responsibilities of the reserving State with regard to essential provisions of the Convention and therefore raise doubts as to the commitment assumed by this State in acceding to the Convention.

       Consequently, the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany considers that these reservations are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       According to Article 28, paragraph 2 of the Convention reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany therefore objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Syrian Arab Republic."

9 November 2005

With regard to the reservations made by the United Arab Emirates upon accession:

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany has carefully examined the reservations made by the Government of the United Arab Emirates upon accession to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.  It is of the opinion that from the reservations to Article 2 (f), Article 15 (2) and Article 16, which give a specific legal system, the Islamic Sharia, precedence as a rule over the provisions of the Convention, it is unclear to what extent the UAE feels bound by the obligations of the Convention.

       Moreover, the reservations to Article 9 (2) and Article 15 (2) would in practice result in a legal situation that discriminated against women, which would not be compatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       Pursuant to Article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations that are incompatible with the object and purpose of the present Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations made by the Government of the United Arab Emirates to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Federal Republic of Germany and the United Arab Emirates.

28 August 2006

With regard to the reservations made by Oman upon accession:

       "The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany has carefully examined the reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman on 7 February 2006 upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women of 18 December 1979.  The reservations state the Sultanate of Oman does not consider itself bound by provisions of the Convention that are not in accordance with the provisions of the Islamic Sharia and legislation in force in the Sultanate of Oman, and also state that it is not bound by Article 9 (2), Article 15 (4) and Article 16, subparagraphs (a), (c) and (f) of the Convention.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany is of the opinion that by giving precedence to the principles of the Sharia and its own national law over the application of the provisions of the Convention, the Sultanate of Oman has made a reservation which leaves it unclear to what extent it feels bound by the obligations of the Convention and which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.  Furthermore, the reservations to Article 9 (2), Article 15 (4) and Article16 will unavoidably result in a legal situation that discriminates against women, which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       Pursuant to Article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations that are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Sultanate of Oman."

19 December 2006

With regard to the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany has carefully examined the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam on 24 May 2006 upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women of 18 December 1979.  The reservations state that Brunei Darussalam does not consider itself bound by provisions of the Convention that are contrary to the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam and to the beliefs and principles of Islam, in particular Article 9 (2) of the Convention.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany is of the opinion that by giving precedence to the beliefs and principles of Islam and its own constitutional law over the application of the provisions of the Convention, Brunei Darussalam has made a reservation which leaves it unclear to what extent it feels bound by the obligations of the Convention and which incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.  Furthermore, the reservation to Article 9 (2) will unavoidably result in a legal situation that discriminates against women, which is incompatibe with the object and purpose of the Convention,

       Pursuant to Article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations that are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Federal Republic of Germany and Brunei Darussalam."

1 August 2017

With regard to the reservations made by Bahrain :

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany has examined the reservations submitted on August 5, 2016 by Bahrain regarding the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women of December 18, 1979.

       The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany considers that the reservations are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention. The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany therefore objects to these reservations.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Federal Republic of Germany and Bahrain.

Hungary

7 February 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Oman upon accession:

       "The Government of the Republic of Hungary has examined the reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman on 7 February 2006 upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women of 18 December 1979.  The reservations state the Sultanate of Oman does not consider itself bound by the provisions of the Convention that are not in accordance with the provisions of the Islamic Sharia and legislation in force in the Sultanate of Oman, and also state that it is not bound by Article 9 (2), Article 15 (4) and Article 16, subparagraphs (a), (c) and (f) of the Convention.

       The Government of the Republic of Hungary is of the opinion that by giving precedence to the principles of the Sharia and its own national law over the application of the provisions of the Convention, the Sultanate of Oman has made a reservation which leaves it unclear to what extent it feels bound by the obligations of the Convention and which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention. Furthermore, the reservations to Article 9 (2), Article 15 (4) and Article 16 will unavoidably result in a legal situation that discriminates against women, which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       Pursuant to Article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations that are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of the Republic of Hungary therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Republic of Hungary and the Sultanate of Oman."

24 April 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "The Government of the Republic of Hungary has examined the reservation made by the Brunei Darussalam on 24 May 2006 upon accession to the Conventio on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women of 18 December 1979.  The reservation states that the Brunei Darussalam does not consider itself bound by Article 9 (2) of the Convention.

       The Government of the Republic of Hungary is of the opinion that the reservation to Article 9 (2) will unavoidably result in a legal situation that discriminates against women, which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       Pursuant to Article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations that are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of the Republic of Hungary therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservation.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Republic of Hungary and the Brunei Darussalam."

15 April 2010

With regard to the reservations made by Qatar upon accession:

       “The Government of the Republic of Hungary has examined the reservations made by the State of Qatar on 29 April 2009 upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women of 18 December 1979. The reservations state that the State of Qatar does not consider itself bound by Article 2 (a), Article 9 (2), Article 15 (1), Article 15 (4) and Article 16, subparagraphs (a), (c) and (f) of the Convention.

       The Government of the Republic of Hungary is of the opinion that the reservations to Article 2 (a), Article 9 (2), Article 15 (1), Article 15 (4) and Article 16, subparagraphs (a), (c) and (f) will unavoidably result in a legal situation that discriminates against women, which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       Pursuant to Article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations that are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of the Republic of Hungary therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations. This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Republic of Hungary and the State of Qatar.”

Italy

2 September 2003

With regard to the reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession:

       "The Government of Italy has examined the reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic at the time of its accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, regarding article 2, article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g), and article 16, paragraph 2.

       The Government of Italy considers that the reservations to article 2, article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g) are incompatible with the object and purpose of the above-mentioned Convention, as they contrast with the commitment of all parties to an effective implementation of the basic principles established in the Convention.

       Furthermore, the Government of Italy underlines that the reservation with respect to article 16, paragraph 2, of the Convention, concerning the Islamic Sharia of the Syrian Arab Republic, may limit the responsibilities and obligations of the reserving State under the Convention, and therefore raises serious doubts about the real extent of the commitment undertaken by the Syrian Arab Republic at the time of its accession to the Convention.

       The Government of Italy recalls that, according to article 28, paragraph 2 of the Convention, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       As a consequence, the Government of Italy objects to the above-mentioned reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This objection, however, shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Government of Italy and the Syrian Arab Republic."

15 June 2007

With regard to the reservations made by the Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "... the Government of Ialy has carefully examined the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam on 24 May 2006 upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women of 18 December 1979.  The reservations state that Brunei Darussalam does not consider itself bound by provisions of the Convention that are contrary to the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam and to the beliefs and principles of Islam, in particular Article 9 (2) of the Convention.

       The Government of Italy is of the opinion that by giving precedence to the beliefs and principles of Islam and its own constitutional law over the application of the provisions of the Convention, Brunei Darussalam has made a reservation which leaves it unclear to what extent it feels bound by the obligations of the Convention and which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.  Furthermore, the reservation to Article 9 (2) will unavoidably result in a legal situation that discriminates against women, which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.  Pursuant to Article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations that are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of Italy therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Italy and Brunei Darussalam."

9 July 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Oman upon accession:

       "..., the Government of Italy has carefully examined the reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman on 7 February 2006 upon accession to the above mentioned Convention.  The reservations state that the Sultanate of Oman does not consider itself bound by provisions of the Convention that are not in accordance with the provisions of the Islamic Sharia and legislation in force in the Sultanate of  Oman, and also state that it is not bound by Article 9 (2), Article 15 (4) and Article 16, subparagraphs (a), (c) and (f) of the Convention.

       The Government of Italy is of the opinion that by giving precedence to the principles of the Sharia and its own national law over the application of the provisions of the Convention, the Sultanate of Oman has made a reservation which leaves it unclear to what extent it feels bound by the obligations of the Convention and which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.  Pursuant to Article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations that are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of Italy therefore objects to the above-mentioned reservations.  This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Italy and the Sultanate of Oman."

15 April 2010

With regard to the reservations made by Qatar upon accession:

       “The Government of Italy has carefully examined the reservations made by the State of Qatar upon accession to the above Convention.

       The reservations state that Qatar does not consider itself bound by Article 9 paragraph 2, Article 15 paragraph 14 and Article 16. The Government of Italy finds that the aforementioned reservations would unavoidably result in a legal situation that discriminates against women, which would be incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Italy would like to recall that according to Article 28 paragraph 2 of the Convention as well as customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose shall not be permitted.

       Moreover, Articles 2 and 16 are considered to be core provisions of the Convention, and their observance is necessary in order to achieve its purpose. Neither traditional, religious or cultural practice nor incompatible domestic laws and policies can justify violations of the Convention.

       For these reasons, the Government of Italy objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the State of Qatar to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This position however does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the State of Qatar and Italy.”

Mexico

11 January 1985

       The Government of the United Mexican States has studied the content of the reservations made by Mauritius to article 11, paragraph 1 (b) and (d), and article 16, paragraph 1 (g), of the Convention and has concluded that they should be considered invalid in the light of article 28, paragraph 2, of the Convention, because they are incompatible with its object and purpose.

       Indeed, these reservations, if implemented, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to all the articles of the Convention.  The principles of equal rights of men and women and non-discrimination on the basis of sex, which are embodied in the second preambular paragraph and Article 1, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, to which Mauritius is a signatory, and in articles 2 and 16 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948, were previously accepted by the Government of Mauritius when it acceded, on 12 December 1973, to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The above principles were stated in article 2, paragraph 1, and article 3 of the former Covenant and in article 2, paragraph 2, and article 3 of the latter.  Consequently, it is inconsistent with these contractual obligations previously assumed by Mauritius for its Government now to claim that it has reservations, on the same subject, about the 1979 Convention.

       The objection of the Government of the United Mexican States to the reservations in question should not be interpreted as an impediment to the entry into force of the 1979 Convention between the United Mexican States and Mauritius.

Objections, identical in essence, mutatis mutandis, were also formulated by the Government of Mexico in regard to reservations made by various States, as follows [for the States which were not Parties to the Covenants (marked below with an asterisk *), the participation in the Covenants was not invoked by Mexico in its objection with regard to reservations]:

       i) 21 February 1985:  In respect of reservations by Bangladesh* concerning article 2, article 13 (a) and article 16 paragraph 1 (c) and (f).

       ii) 21 February 1985:  In respect of the reservation by Jamaica concerning article 9 (2).

       iii) 22 May 1985:  In respect of reservations by New Zealand (applicable to the Cook Islands) concerning article 2 (f) and article 5 (a).

       iv) 6 June 1985:  In respect of reservations by the Republic of Korea concerning article 9 and article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g).  In this case, the Government of Mexico stated that the principles of the equal rights of men and women and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex, which are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of its purposes in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948 and in various multilateral instruments, have already become general principles of international law which apply to the international community, to which the Republic of Korea belongs.

       v) 29 January 1986:  In respect of the reservation made by Cyprus to article 9, paragraph 2.

       vi) 7 May 1986:  In respect of the reservations made by Turkey* to paragraphs 2 and 4 of article 15 and paragraphs 1 (c), 1 (d), 1 (f) and 1 (g) of article 16.

       vii) 16 July 1986:  In respect of reservations made by Egypt to articles 9 and 16.

       viii) 16 October 1986:  In respect of reservations by Thailand* concerning article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 3 and article 16.

       ix) 4 December 1986:  In respect of reservations by Iraq concerning article 2, paragraphs (f) and (g), article 9, paragraphs 1 and 2 and article 16.

       x) 23 July 1990:  In respect of the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya.

Norway

16 July 1990

       "The Government of Norway has examined the contents of the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, by which the accession `is subject to the general reservation that such accession cannot conflict with the laws on personal status derived from the Islamic Shariah'. The Norwegian Government has come to the conclusion that this reservation is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention (article 28, paragraph 2). The Government of Norway objects to the reservation.

       "The Norwegian Government will stress that by acceding to the Convention, a state commits itself to adopt the measures required for the elimination of discrimination, in all its forms and manifestations, against women. A reservation by which a State Party limits its responsibilities under the Convention by invoking religious law (Shariah), which is subject to interpretation, modification, and selective application in different states adhering to Islamic principles, may create doubts about the commitments of the reserving state to the object and purpose of the Convention. It may also undermine the basis of international treaty law. All states have common interest in securing that all parties respect treaties to which they have chosen to become parties."

25 October 1994

With regard to the reservations made by Maldives upon accession:

       "In the view of the Government of Norway, a reservation by which a State party limits its responsibilities under the Convention by invoking general principles of internal law may create doubts about the commitments of the reserving State to the object and purpose of the Convention and, moreover, contribute to undermine the basis of international treaty law. It is in the common interest of States thattreaties to which they have chosen to become parties also are respected, as to their object and purpose, by all parties. Furthermore, under well established international treaty law, a State is not permitted to invoke internal law as justification for its failure to perform its treaty obligations. For these reasons, the Government of Norway objects to Maldives reservations.

       The Government of Norway does not consider this objection to constitute an obstacle to the entry into force of the above-stated Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and the Republic of Maldives."

2 May 1995

With regard to the reservations made by Kuwait upon accession:

       [Same objection, mutatis mutandis, as the one made for Maldives.]

16 October 1996

With regard to the reservations made by Malaysia upon accession:

       "In the view of the Government of Norway, a statement by which a State Party purports to limit its responsibilities under the Convention by invoking general principles of internal or religious law may create doubts about the commitment of the reserving State to the object and purpose of the Convention and, moreover, contribute to undermining the basis of international treaty law. Under well-established international treaty law, a State is not permitted to invoke internal law as justification for its failure to perform its treaty obligations. Furthermore, the Government of Norway considers that reservation made by the Government of Malaysia with respect to certain specific provisions of the Convention is so extensive as to be contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention, and thus not permitted under article 28, paragraph 2, of the Convention. For theses reasons, the Government of Norway objects to the reservationsmade by the Government of Malaysia.

       The Government of Norway does not consider this objection to preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and Malaysia."

30 October 1996

With regard to the reservations made by Lesotho upon ratification:

       [Same objection, mutatis mutandis, as the one made for Maldives.]

21 November 1996

With regard to the reservations made by Singapore upon accession:

       [Same objection, mutatis mutandis, as the one made for Maldives.]

6 June 1997

With regard to the declarations made by Pakistan upon accession:

       [Same objection, mutatis mutandis, as the one made for Maldives.]

3 July 1997

With regard to the reservations made by Algeria upon accession:

       [Same objection, mutatis mutandis, as the one made for Malaysia.]

1 November 2000

With regard to the reservations made by Niger upon accession:

       "The reservation concerns fundamental provisions of the Convention. Article 2 is the core provision as it outlines the measures which the State Party is required to take in order to implement the Convention. The Convention can only be successfully implemented when all measures prescribed by Article 2 are taken. Most importantly, it is unclear how the Convention's substantive provisions will be implemented without adopting measures to modify or abolish existing discriminatory laws, regulations, customs and practices.

       The Government of Norway considers the other elements of the reservation, with exception of the reservation made to article 29, as incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention. The relevant provisions cover fundamental rights of women or they outline key elements in order to abolish discrimination against women. Women will not have the opportunity to live on equal footing with men if these provisions are not implemented.

       Further, it is the Norwegian Government's position that Article 5, paragraph (b) covers both public and private family education.

       The Government of Norway therefore objects to the reservations made by the Government of Niger to the following provisions:

       Article 2, paragraphs (d) and (f)

       Article 5, paragraph (a)

       Article 15, paragraph 4

       Article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (e) and (g)

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and Niger. The Convention thus becomes operative between Norway and Niger without Niger benefiting from these reservations."

9 October 2001

With regard to the reservation made by Saudi Arabia upon ratification:

       "The Government of Norway has examined the contents of the reservation made by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia upon ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       According to paragraph 1 of the reservation, the norms of Islamic Law shall prevail in the event of conflict with the provisions of the Convention. It is the position of the Government of Norway that, due to its unlimited scope and undefined character, this part of the reservation is contrary to object and purpose of the Convention.

       Further, the reservation to Article 9, paragraph 2, concerns one of the core provisions of the Convention, and which aims at eliminating discrimination against women. The reservation is thus incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       For these reasons, the Government of Norway objects to paragraph 1 and the first part of paragraph 2 of the reservation made by Saudi Arabia, as they are impermissible according to Article28, paragraph 2 of the Convention.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Convention thus becomes operative between Norway and Saudi Arabia without Saudi Arabia benefiting from the said parts of the reservation."

20 February 2002

With regard to the reservations made by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea upon accession:

       "The Government of Norway has examined the contents of the reservation made by the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women.

       Article 2 is the Convention's core provision outlining the measures that the State Party is required to take in order to ensure the effective implementation of the Convention. Without adopting measures to modify or abolish existing discriminatory laws, regulations, customs and practices as prescribed by paragraph (f) of Article 2, none of the Convention's substantive provisions can be successfully implemented. The reservation to paragraph (f) of Article 2 is thus incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       Further, as Article 9, paragraph 2 aims at eliminating discrimination against women, the reservation to this provision is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The Government of Norway therefore objects to the parts of the reservation that concern paragraph (f) of Article 2 and paragraph 2 of Article 9, as they are impermissible according to Article 28, paragraph 2 of the Convention.

       This objectiondoes not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The Convention thus becomes operative between the Kingdom of Norway and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea without the Democratic People's Republic of Korea benefiting from the said parts of the reservation."

31 May 2002

With regard to the reservation made by Mauritania upon accession:

       "The Government of Norway has examined the contents of the reservation made by the Government of Mauritania upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       The reservation consists of a general reference to national law and does not clearly define to what extent Mauritania has accepted the obligations under the Convention. The Government of Norway therefore objects to the reservation, as it is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention and thus impermissible according to Article 28 of the Convention.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and Mauritania. The Convention thus becomes operative between Norway and Mauritania without Mauritania benefiting from the reservation."

5 April 2004

With regard to the reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession:

       "The Government of Norway has examined the reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women regarding Article 2, Article 9, paragraph 2, Article 15, paragraph 4, Article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g) and Article 16, paragraph 2.

       The said reservations,as they relate to core provisions of the Convention, render the provisions of the Convention ineffective. Moreover, and due to the reference to Islamic Sharia, it is not clearly defined for other States Parties to what extent the reserving State has undertaken the obligations of the Convention. The Government of Norway therefore objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and the Syrian Arab Republic. The Convention thus becomes operative between the Kingdom of Norway and the Syrian Arab Republic without the Syrian Arab Republic benefiting from the aforesaid reservations."

1 December 2005

With regard to the reservations made by the United Arab Emirates upon accession:

       "The Government of the Kingdom of Norway has examined the reservations made by the Government of the United Arab Emirates on 6 October 2004 on accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (New York, 18 December 1979) in respect of articles 2 (f); 9; 15 (c) and 16.

       The Government of the Kingdom of Norway is of the view that the reservation in respect of article 2 (f), which is a core provision of the above Convention, taken together with the reservations in respect of articles 9, 15 (c) and 16, raise doubts as to the full commitment of the United Arab Emirates to the object and purpose of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and would like to recall that, according to article 28 (2) of the Convention, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of the present Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of the Kingdom of Norway therefore objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Government of the United Arab Emirates to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. This objection does not preclude the entry into force, in its entirety, of the Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and the United Arab Emirates, without the United Arab Emirates benefiting from these reservations."

21 March 2007

With regard to the reservation made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "The Government of Norway has examined the reservations made by the Government of Brunei Darussalam upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (New York, 18 December 1979).

       In the view of the Government of Norway, a statement by which a State Party purports to limit its responsibilities under the Convention by invoking general principles of internal or religious law may create doubts about the commitment of the reserving State to the object and purpose of the Convention and, moreover, contribute to undermining the basis of international treaty law. Under well-established international treaty law, a State is not permitted to invoke internal law as a justification for its failure to perform its treaty obligations. For these reasons, the Government of Norway objects to the reservation made by the Government of Brunei Darussalam.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and Brunei Darussalam. The Convention thus becomes operative between Norway and Brunei Darussalam without Brunei Darussalam benefiting from the said reservations."

6 May 2010

With regard to the reservations made by Qatar upon accession:

       “The Government of Norway finds that the reservations to article 2 (a), article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraphs 1 and 4 and article 16, paragraph 1 (a), (c) and (f) affect essential obligations arising from the Convention, obligations whose observance is necessary in order to achieve the purpose of the Convention.  The Government of Norway recalls that, according to article 28, paragraph 2 of the Convention, as well as customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties article 19, paragraph (c), a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty shall not be permitted.  The Government of Norway considers that the reservations made by the State of Qatar are so extensive as to be contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  For these reasons, the Government of Norway objects to reservations Nos. 1-6 made by the State of Qatar.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force in its entirety of the Convention between the Kingdom of Norway and the State of Qatar.  The Convention thus becomes operative between the Kingdom of Norway and the State of Qatar without the State of Qatar benefiting from the aforesaid reservations.”

Portugal

26 October 1994

With regard to the reservations made by Maldives upon accession:

       "The Government of Portugal considers that the reservations formulated by the Maldives are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and they are inadmissible under article19 (c) of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.

       Furthermore, the Government of Portugal considers that these reservations cannot alter or modify in any respect the obligations arising from the Convention for any State party thereto."

18 July 2001

With regard to the reservations made by Saudi Arabia upon ratification:

       "The Government of the Portuguese Republic has examined the reservation made on 7 September by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (New York, 18 December 1979), regarding any interpretation of the provisions of the Convention that is incompatible with the precept of Islamic law and the Islamic religion.  It has also examined the reservation to article 9.2 of the Convention.

       The Government of the Portuguese Republic is of the view that the first reservation refers in general terms to the Islamic law, failing to specify clearly its content and, therefore, leaving the other State parties with doubts as to the real extent of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to the Convention.

       Furthermore, it also considers the reservation made by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia incompatible with the objective and purpose of the aforesaid Convention, for it refers to the whole of the Convention, and it seriously limits or even excludes its application on a vaguely defined basis, such as the global reference to the Islamic law.

       Regarding the reservation to article 9.2, the Government of the Portuguese Republic is of the view that the said reservation intends to exclude one of the obligations of non-discrimination, which is the essnce of the Convention.

       Therefore, the Government of the Portuguese Republic objects to the aforementioned reservations made by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Portuguese Republic and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."

4 March 2002

With regard to the reservations made by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea upon accession:

       "The Government of the Portuguese Republic has examined the reservation made by the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (New York, 18 December 1979) on 27 February 2001 in respect of articles 2 (f) and 9.2 of the Convention.

       Recalling that, according tp paragraph 2 of Article 28 of the Convention a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted, the Government of the Portuguese Republic objects to the said reservations.

       In fact, the reservation relating to article 2 (f) refers to a basic aspect of the Convention, namely the compromise to enact legislation to abolish all existing legal practices discriminating against women.

       Regarding the reservation to article 9.2, the Government of the Portuguese Republic is of the view that the said reservation intends to exclude one of the specific obligations of non-discrimination, which is the essence of the Convention.

       It is in the common interests of States that Treaties to which they have chosen to become party are respected by all parties and that the States are prepared to take all appropriate measures, including legislation to comply with their obligations.

       Therefore, the Government of the Portuguese Republic objects to the afore mentioned reservations made by the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the Convention on the Elination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Portuguese Republic and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea."

With regard to the reservation made by Mauritania upon accession:

       "The Government of the Portuguese Republic has examined the reservation made by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (New York, 18 December 1979) on 10 May 2001 in respect of any interpretation of the provisions of the Convention that it is incompatible with the precept of Islamic law and its Constitution.

       The Government of the Portuguese Republic is of the view that the said reservation refers in a general manner to national law, failing to specify clearly its content and, therefore, leaving the other State parties with doubts as to the real extent of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania's commitment to the Convention.

       Furthermore it also considers the reservation made by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania incompatible with the objective and purpose of the aforesaid Convention, and it seriously limits or even excludes its application on a vaguely defined basis, such as the global reference to the Islamic law.

       The Government of the Portuguese Republic therefore objects to the reservation made by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Portuguese Republic and the Islamic Republic of Mauritania."

28 November 2005

With regard to the reservations made by the United Arab Emirates upon accession:

       "The Portuguese Government has carefully examined the reservations made by the United Arab Emirates upon its accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

       Most of these reservations concern fundamental provisions of the Convention, such as articles 2 (f), 9, 15 (2) and 16, since they outline the measures which a State Party is required to take in order to implement the Convention, cover the fundamental rights of women and deal with the key elements for the elimination of discrimination against women.

       Portugal considers that such reservations, consisting of references to the precepts of the Shariah and to national legislation, create serious doubts as to the commitment of the reserving State to the object and purpose of the Convention and to the extent it has accepted the obligations imposed by it and, moreover, contribute to undermining the basis of international law.

       It is in the common interest of all States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose by all parties and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under these treaties.

       The Government of the Portuguese Republic, therefore, objects to the above reservations made by the United Arab Emirates to the CEDAW.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Portugal and the United Arab Emirates."

30 January 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Oman upon accession:

       "The first reservation concerns "all provisions of the Convention not in accordance with the provisions of the Islamic sharia and legislation in force in the Sultanate of Oman".  Portugal considers that this reservation is too general and vague and seeks to limit the scope of the Convention on an unilateral basis that is not authorised by it.  Moreover, this reservation creates doubts as to the commitment of the reserving State to the object and purpose of the Convention and, moreover, contributes to undermining the basis of international law.  It is in the common interest of allStates that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose by all parties and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       The second, third and fourth reservations concern fundamental provisions of the Convention, such as articles 9 (2), 15 (4) and 16, that cover the fundamental rights of women and deal with the key elements for the elimination of discrimination against women on the basis of sex.  These reservations are thus incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and are not permitted under article 28 (2) of the CEDAW.

       The Government of the Portuguese Republic, therefore, objects to the above mentioned reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman to the CEDAW.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Portugal and Oman."

With regard to the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "The reservation concerning the "provisions of the said Convention that may be contrary to the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam and to the beliefs and principles of Islam, the official religion of Brunei Darussalam" is too general and vague and seeks to limit the scope of the Convention on a unilateral basis that is not authorised by it.  Moreover, this reservation creates doubts as to the commitment of the reserving State to the object and purpose of the Convention and, moreover, contributes to undermining the basis of international law.  It is in the common interest of all States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose by all parties and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       The reservation concerning article 9 (2) undermines a key provision of the Convention concerning the elimination of discrimination against women on the basis of sex.  This reservation is thus incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and is not permitted under article 28 (2) of the CEDAW.

       The Government of the Portuguese Republic, therefore, objects to the above mentioned reservations made by the Government of Brunei Darussalam to the CEDAW.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Portugal and Brunei Darussalam."

Slovakia

27 February 2007

With regard to the reservation made by Oman upon accession:

       "The Government of Slovakia has carefully examined the reservation made by the Sultanate of Oman upon its accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDA W).

       The Government of Slovakia is of the view that the general reservation made by the Sultanate of Oman that "all provisions of the Convention not in accordance with the provisions of the Islamic sharia and legislation in force in the Sultanate of Oman" is too general and does not clearly specify the extent of the obligation (mentioned in the Convention) for the Sultanate of Oman.

       The Government of Slovakia finds the reservation to article 9 (2), article 15 (4) and article 16 incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and is therefore inadmissible under article 19 (c) of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties. Therefore it shall not be permitted, in accordance with article 2[8], paragraph 2 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       For these reasons, the Government of Slovakia objects to the above mentioned reservation made by the Sultanate of Oman upon its accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women between Slovakia and the Sultanate of Oman. The Convention enters into force in its entirety between Slovakia and the Sultanate of Oman, without the Sultanate of Oman benefitting from its reservation. "

11 May 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "The Government of Slovakia has carefully examined the content of the reservations made by the Brunei Darussalam upon its accession to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination againt Women (CEDAW).

       The Government of Slovakia is of the opinion that the  reservation containing the reference to the beliefs and principles of Islam is too general and raises serious doubt as to the  commitment of Brunei Darussalam to the object and the purpose of the Convention.

       Moreover, the Government of Slovakia considers that one of the aims of the Convention is to grant the equality between men and women with respect to determine the nationality of their children. Therefore it finds the reservation of Brunei Darussalam to paragraph 2 of article 9 of the Convention as undermining one of key provisions of the Convention and is incompatible with its object and purpose. It is therefore inadmissible and shall be permitted, in accordance with paragraph 2 of article 28 of the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       For these reasons, the Government of Slovakia objects to the above mentioned reservations made by the Brunei Darussalam upon its accession to the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Slovakia and the Brunei Darussalam.  The Convention enters into force in its entirety between Slovakia and the Brunei Darussalam without the Brunei Darussalam benefiting from its reservations."

28 July 2009

       With regard to the reservations made by Qatar upon accession

       "The Government of the Slovak Republic has carefully examined the reservations and declarations formulated by the State of Qatar upon its accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, adopted on 18 December 1979 in New York, according to which :

       I. Reservations:

       For the reasons explained below, the State of Qatar does not consider itself bound by the following provisions of the Convention:

       1. Article 2 (a) in connection with the rules of the hereditary transmission of authority, as it is inconsistent with the provisions of article 8 of the Constitution.

       2. Article 9, paragraph 2, as it is inconsistent with Qatar’s law on citizenship.

       3. Article 15, paragraph 1, in connection with matters of inheritance and testimony, as it is inconsistent with the provisions of Islamic law.

       4. Article 15, paragraph 4, as it is inconsistent with the provisions of family law and established practice.

       5. Article 16, paragraph 1 (a) and (c), as they are inconsistent with the provisions of Islamic law.

       6. Article 16, paragraph 1 (f), as it is inconsistent with the provisions of Islamic law and family law.

       The State of Qatar declares that all of its relevant national legislation is conducive to the interest of promoting social solidarity.

       II. Declarations:

       1. The Government of the State of Qatar accepts the text of article 1 of the Convention provided that, in accordance with the provisions of Islamic law and Qatari legislation, the phrase “irrespective of their marital status” is not intended to encourage family relationships outside legitimate marriage. It reserves the right to implement the Convention in accordance with this understanding.

       2. The State of Qatar declares that the question of the modifications of “patterns” referred to in article 5 (a) must not be understood as encouraging women to abandon their role as mothers and their role in child-rearing, thereby undermining the structure of the family.

       Therefore, having studied and approved the Convention, we confirm by this instrument that we accept the Convention, accede to it and undertake to abide [these] provisions, while affirming and bearing in the mind the reservations and declarations mentioned above.

       The Government of the Slovak Republic finds the reservations to article 2 (a), article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, article 16, paragraph 1 (a) and (c), article 16, paragraph 1 (f) and declarations to article 1 and article 5 (a), if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention and is therefore inadmissible under article 19 (c) of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties. Therefore it shall not be permitted, in accordance with article 28, paragraph 2 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       For these reasons, the Government of the Slovak Republic objects to the above mentioned reservations and declarations made by the State of Qatar upon accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women between the Slovak Republic and the State of Qatar. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women enters into force in its entirety between the Slovak Republic and the State of Qatar, without the State of Qatar benefiting from its reservations and declarations.”

Sweden

17 March 1986

"The Government of Sweden considers that [the following reservations] are incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention (article 28, paragraph 2) and therefore objects to them:

       - Thailand regarding article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 3 and article 16;

       - Tunisia regarding article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, and article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (f), (g) and (h).

       - Bangladesh regarding article 2, article 13 (a) and article 16, paragraph 1 (c) and (f);

       - Brazil regarding article 15, paragraph 4 and article 16, paragraph 1 (a), (c), (g) and (h);

       "Indeed the reservations in question, if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to everything the Convention stands for. It should also be borne in mind that the principles of the equal rights of men and women and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of its purposes, in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948 and in various multilateral instruments, to which Thailand, Tunisia and Bangladesh are parties.

       "The Government of Sweden furthermore notes that, as a matter of principle, the same objection could be made to the reservations made by:

       - Egypt regarding article 2, article 9, paragraph 2, and article 16,

       - Mauritius regarding article 11, paragraph 1 (b) and (d), and article 16, paragraph 1 (g),

       - Jamaica regarding article 9, paragraph 2,

       - Republic of Korea regarding article 9 and article 16, paragraph 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g),

       - New Zealand in respect of the Cook Islands regarding article 2, paragraph (f) and article 5, paragraph (a).

       "In this context the Government of Sweden wishes to take this opportunity to make the observation that the reason why reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty are not acceptable is precisely that otherwise they would render a basic international obligation of a contractual nature meaningless.  Incompatible reservations, made in respect of the Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women, do not only cast doubts on the commitments of the reserving states to the objects and purpose of this Convention, but moreover, contribute to undermine the basis of international contractual law.  It is in the common interest of states that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties also are respected, as to object and purpose, by other parties."

Subsequently, the Secretary-General received, from the Government of Sweden, objections of the same nature as the one above with regard to reservations made by the following States on the dates indicated hereinafter:

       - 12 March 1987 with regard to the reservation made by Iraq in respect of article 2, paragraph (f) and (g), article 9, paragraph 1, and article 16;

       - 15 April 1988 with regard to the first reservations made by Malawi;

       - 25 May 1990 with regard to the reservation made by the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya;

       - 5 February 1993 with regard to the reservations made by Jordan in respect of article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4, the wording of article 16 (c), and article 16 (d) and (g);

       - 26 October 1994 with regard to the reservations made by Maldives upon accession.

       The Government of Sweden also stated that:

       "The Government of Sweden therefore objects to these reservations and considers that they constitute an obstacle to the entry into force of the Convention between Sweden and the Republic of Maldives";

       - 17 January 1996 with regard to the reservations made by Kuwait upon accession;

       - 27 January 1998 with regard to the reservations made by Lebanon upon accession.

       - 27 April 2000 with regard to the reservations to articles  2 , 5, 15 and 16 made by Niger upon accession.

30 March 2001

With regard to the reservations made by Saudi Arabia upon ratification:

       "The Government of Sweden has examined the reservation made by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the time of its ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, as to any interpretation of the provisions of the Convention that is incompatible with the norms of Islamic law.

       The Government of Sweden is of the view that this general reservation, which does not clearly specify the provisions of the convention to which it applies and the extent of the derogation therefrom, raises doubts as to the commitment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have been chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties. According to customary law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.  The Government of Sweden therefore objects to the aforesaid general reservation made by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kingdom of Sweden, without the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia benefiting from the said reservation".

25 July 2001

With regard to the reservations made by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea upon accession:

       "The Government of Sweden has examined the reservation made by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea at the time of its accession to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, regarding articles 2 (f) and 9 (2) of the Convention.

       The reservation in question, if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  It should be borne in mind that the principles of the equal rights of men and women and of  non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in te Charter of the United Nations as one of the purposes of the organisation, as well as in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

       According to Article 28 (2) of the Convention, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted. It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.  According to customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.

       The Government of Sweden therefore objects to the aforesaid reservation made by the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to the Conventionon the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and considers the reservation null and void.  The Convention enters into force in its entirety between the two States, without the Democratic People's Republic of Korea benefiting from its reservation".

21 January 2002

With regard to the reservation made by Mauritania upon accession:

       "The Government of Sweden has examined the reservation made by Mauritania upon acceding to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       The Government of Sweden notes that the Convention is being made subject to a general reservation of unlimited scope referring to the contents of Islamic Sharia and to existing legislation in Mauritania.

       The Government of Sweden is of the view that this reservation which does not clearly specify the provisions of the Convention to which it applies, and the extent of the derogation therefrom, raises serious doubts as to the commitment of Mauritania to the object and purpose of the Convention.  The Government of Sweden would like to recall that, according to customary international law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, a reservation incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty shall not be permitted.

       It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       The Government of Sweden therefore objects to the aforesaid reservation made by the Government of Mauritania to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

       The objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Mauritania and Sweden.  The Convention enters into force in its entirety between the two States, without Mauritania benefiting from its reservation."

27 November 2002

With regard to the reservation made by Bahrain upon accession:

       "The Government of Sweden has examined the reservation made by Bahrain upon acceding to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, regarding articles 2, 9(2), 15(4) and 16.

       The reservation to articles 9(2) and 15(4), if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention. It should be borne in mind that the principles of the equal rights of men and women and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of the purposes of the organisation, as well as in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

       The reservation to articles 2 and 16 make general references to Islamic sharia.  The Government of Sweden is of the view that, in absence of further clarification, this reservation which does not clearly specify the extent of Bahrain's derogation from the provisions in question raises serious doubts as to the commitment of Bahrain to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       According to article 28(2) of the Convention, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted. It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       The Government of Sweden objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Government of Bahrain to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and considers the reservation null and void.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Bahrain and Sweden.  The Convention enters into force in its entirety between the two States, without Bahrain benefiting from its reservation."

11 July 2003

With regard to the reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic upon accession:

       "The Government of Sweden has examined the reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic upon acceding to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women regarding article 2, article 9, paragraph 2, article 15, paragraph 4 and article 16, paragraphs 1 (c), (d), (f) (g) and 2 of the Convention.

       Article 2 of the Convention is one of the core articles of the Convention.  A general reservation to this article seriously raises doubts as to the commitment of the Syrian Arab Republic to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       The reservations to articles 9, paragraph 2, article 15,paragraph 4 and article 16, paragraphs 1 (c), (d), (f) and (g), if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  It should be borne in mind that the principles of the equal rights of men and women and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of the purposes of the organisation, as well as in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

       The reservation to article 16, paragraph 2,makes a general reference to islamic sharia.  The Government of Sweden is of the view that in the absence of further clarification, this reservation which does not clearly specify the extent of the Syrian Arab Republic's derogation from the provision in question raises serious doubts as to the commitment of the Syrian Arab Republic to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       According to article 28, paragraph 2, of the Convention, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.  It is in the common interest of all States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       The Government of Sweden therefore objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Syrian Arab Republic to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Syrian Arab Republic and Sweden.  The Convention enters into force in its entirety between the two States, without the Syrian Arab Republic benefiting from its reservations."

25 August 2005

With regard to the reservations made by Micronesia (Federated States of) upon accession:

       "The Government of Sweden is of the view that this reservation raises serious doubts as to the commitment of the Government of Micronesia to the object and purpose of the Convention.  The reservation would, if put into practice, result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex.  It should be borne in mind that the principles of the equal right of men and women and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of the purposes of the organisation, as well as in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

       According to article 28 (2) of the Convention, and to customary law as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.  It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       The Government of Sweden therefore objects to the aforesaid reservation made by the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia to the Convention to the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and considers the reservation null and void.  The Convention enters into force in its entirety between the two States, without the Federated States of Micronesia benefiting from its reservations."

5 October 2005

With regard to the reservations made by the United Arab Emirates upon accession:

       "The Government of Sweden has examined the reservations made by United Arab Emirates upon acceding to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, regarding Article 2 (f), 9, 15 (2) and 16.

       The Government of Sweden notes that the said articles are being made subject to reservations referring to national legislation and Sharia principles.

       The Government of Swedenis of the view that these reservations which do not clearly specify the extent of the United Arab Emirates' derogation from the provisions in question raises serious doubts as to the commitment of the United Arab Emirates to the object and purpose of the Convention.  The reservations in question, if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  It should be borne in mind that the principles of the equal rights of women and men and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of the purposes of the organization, as well as in the declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

       According to article 28 (2) of the Convention, and to international customary law as codified in the Vienna convention on the Law of the Treaties, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.  It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties are respected as to their object and purpose, by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       The Government of Sweden therefore objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Government of the United Arab Emirates to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and considers them null and void.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the United Arab Emirates and Sweden.  The convention enters into force in its entirety between the two States, without the United Arab Emirates benefiting from its reservations."

6 February 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Oman upon accession:

       "The Government of Sweden has examined the reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman on 7 February 2006 to the Conventionon the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       The Government of Sweden notes that the Sultanate of Oman gives precedence to the provisions of Islamic Sharia and national legislation over the application of the provisions of the Convention. The Government of Sweden is of the view that this reservation which does not clearly specify the extent of the Sultanate of Oman's derogation from the provisions in question raises serious doubt as to the commitment of the Sultanate of Oman to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       Furthermore, the Government of Sweden considers that, regarding the reservations made with respect to articles 9 (2), 15 (4), 16 (a, c, f), if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  It should be borne in mind that the principles of the equal rights of women and men and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of the purposes of the organization, as well as the declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

       According to article 28 (2) of the Convention and to international customary law, as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.  It is in the common interest of States that treaties to which they have chosen to become parties, are respected as to their object and purpose by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       The Government of Sweden therefore objects to the aforesaid reservations made by the Sultanate of Oman to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and considers them null and void.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the Sultanate of Oman and Sweden.  The Conventon enters into force in its entirety between the two States, without the Sultanate of Oman benefiting from its reservations."

12 February 2007

With regard to the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam upon accession:

       "The Government of Sweden has examined the reservations made by Brunei Darussalam on  24 May 2006 to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

       The Government of Sweden notes that Brunei Darussalam gives precedence to the beliefs and principles of Islam and national legislation over the application of the provisions of the Convention.  The Government of Sweden is of the view that this reservation which does not clearly specify the extent of Brunei Darussalam's derogation from the provisions in questions raises serious doubt as to the commitment of Brunei Darussalam to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       Furthermore, the Government of Sweden considers that, regarding the reservation made with respect to article 9 (2), if put into practice, would inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  It should be borne in mind that the principles of the equal rights of women and men and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of the purposes of the organization, as well as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

       According to article 28 (2) of the Convention and to international customary law, as codified in the Vienna convention on the Law of Treaties, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of the Convention shall not be permitted.  It is in the common interest of States that treaties, to which they have chosen to become parties, are respected as to their object and purpose by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligations under the treaties.

       The Government of Sweden therefore objects to the aforesaid reservations made by Brunei Darussalam to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and considers them null and void.

       This objection shall not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between Brunei Darussalam and Sweden.  The convention enters int force in its entirety between the two States without Brunei Darussalam benefiting from its reservations."

7 May 2010

With regard to the reservations made by Qatar upon accession:

       “The Government of Sweden considers that the reservations made with respect to articles 9 (2), 15 (1), 15 (4) and 16 (1 a, c, f) would, if put into practice, inevitably result in discrimination against women on the basis of sex, which is contrary to the object and purpose of the Convention.  It should be borne in mind that the principles of the equal rights of women and men and of non-discrimination on the basis of sex are set forth in the Charter of the United Nations as one of the purposes of the organization, and are enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948.

       The Government of Sweden notes that the reservations made by the State of Qatar would give precedence to the provisions of the national Constitution and legislation as well as to the provisions of Islamic law and established practice.  The Government of Sweden is of the belief that these reservations, which do not clearly specify the extent of the derogation by the State of Qatar from the provisions in question, raises serious doubt as to the commitment of the State of Qatar to the object and purpose of the Convention.

       According to Article 28 (2) of the Convention and to international customary law, as codified in the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, reservations incompatible with the object and purpose of a Convention shall not be permitted.  It is in the common interest of States that treaties, to which they have chosen to become parties, are respected as to their object and purpose by all parties, and that States are prepared to undertake any legislative changes necessary to comply with their obligation under the treaties.

       This objection does not preclude the entry into force of the Convention between the State of Qatar and Sweden.  The Convention shall enter into force in its entirety between the two States without Qatar benefiting from its reservations.

       It is the understanding of the Government of the Sweden that the declarations of the State of Qatar concerning articles 1 and 5 (a) of the Convention do not exclude or modify the legal effect of the provisions of the Convention in their application to Qatar and that these declarations do not affect the principle of equality of men and women which is fundamental to the Convention.”