The 45th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women: Gender Discrimination and the AIDS pandemic

This article reviewing the 45th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women begins by outlining the work and mandate of the Commission. During the 45th session, the connections between gender and the AIDS epidemic were a particular focus. The Commission noted that the imbalance of power between men and women is a significant cause of the spread of HIV/AIDS. The consensus during the meeting was on the need for a holistic approach to women's empowerment. One particular area which the article touches upon is the importance of modifying laws which contribute to violence against women. [Descriptors: Reproductive Rights - Overview, Reproductive Rights - HIV/AIDS, International]