Recently, activists, experts by experience, representatives of non-governmental organisations and researchers gathered for an inspiring launch of the Dutch CEDAW Shadow Report 2.0. The general expert meeting, held in the pleasant setting of the Kargadoor in Utrecht, brought together a diverse group to discuss key issues to be submitted to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women in this second shadow report.
The afternoon of 18 September 2023 was dedicated to substantive discussions on strategy, lobbying, and the essential issues to be highlighted in the Shadow Report 2.0. Participants shared their expertise and insights on a wide range of issues affecting women's rights and gender (in)equities in the Netherlands. This included topics such as violence against women, social-economic participation, discrimination in all its forms, racism, and refugee and migration policy.
One of the main purposes of this meeting was to gather valuable input for us (Petra Snelders, Janna Visser and myself) as writing team of the Shadow Report 2.0. In this respect, we consider this meeting very successful. Participants brought forward information and perspectives, which now serve as the basis for the report writing process. This input, together with those yet to be collected, is of great value in compiling our information and suggestions for questions to the government, which we intend to share with the CEDAW Committee.
Further planning shadow reporting 2.0
The enthusiasm and great input during the expert meeting have strengthened the momentum for Shadow Reporting 2.0. Further planning includes a few steps. The first step is to gather even more input.
We will also organise several focus groups on specific topics in the coming months, and we are very keen to work with organisations and experts who would like to host such a meeting.
After we have collected the input (in the last quarter of this year and first quarter of next year), we will prepare draft documents that we will share with the experts involved for feedback.
Final draft for endorsement by end of April 2024
A final draft of the entire Shadow Report 2.0 will be circulated for endorsement by the end of April 2024. By summer 2024, we will send the signed Shadow Report 2.0 to the CEDAW Committee.
In preparation for the Constructive Dialogue between the Netherlands and the CEDAW Committee, which will take place in late September/early October 2024, we will organise another grassroots meeting before the summer of 2024.
Dit bericht in het Nederlands met oproep voor input, zie: http://cedawschaduwrapportage.blogspot.com/2023/10/reflectie-expertbijeenkomst.html