Universal Periodic Review (UPR)
We drive the implementation of solutions to end gender-based violence against women and girls by submitting recommendations for countries under review.
Using international law to drive change at the national level
The Universal Periodic Review is a peer-review process where countries hold each other accountable for upholding human rights, including action to end violence against all women and girls. Civil society recommendations are a vital part of the process, providing community-level evidence that helps drive the uptake of recommendations. In collaboration with coalition members, we engage in the UPR to influence action on ending violence against all women and girls.
Every Woman is one of the only civil society organisations working exclusively to end violence against all women and girls through the UPR
How it works
Universal Periodic Review sessions take place in Geneva, typically in January/February, April/May, and October/November. Each session lasts two weeks, during which 14 UN Member States are reviewed, for a total of 42 countries reviewed annually. All 193 UN Member States are reviewed every 4.5 years. Civil society organisations submit written recommendations and can request to speak in person during the country’s review.
Our engagement
- Provide clear, country-specific, evidence-based recommendations on ending violence against all women and girls to countries under review.
- Monitor the uptake of our recommendations.
- Track a country’s follow-through on those recommendations.
Outcomes
- Countries prioritise and fund proven, survivor-centred solutions to prevent and prosecute violence against women and girls and support survivors.
