25 September 2014 - Judicial actors in Kuajok, Warrap State, called today for the full protection of women against all forms of discrimination.

During its one-day session, Warrap State Rule of Law Forum discussed the basic elements and principles of the UN Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).

The forum, which brought together 16 stakeholders, called for the strengthening of equality between men and women and preventing discrimination of women.

UNMISS Judicial Affairs Section Officer in the state, Tara Khan, told participants that the forum option to discuss CEWDAW was crucial in protecting protect women’s and men’s interests.

She said South Sudanese government had signed CEWDAW on 3 September 3. “The South Sudanese government has now undertaken an (legal) obligation to start putting together measures to put this treaty into practice.”

However, the head of legal administration in Warrap State, Valentino Dot Mel, said that state would consider CEDAW as a source of law but implementation would be critical due to traditional practices.”

South Sudan’s parliament has ratified CEDAW, but the Convention still awaits President Salva Kiir’s signature before it becomes law.