Melanne Verveer: “It will be a demonstration to our own women and girls that the United States officially stands behind their advancement…”

I believe that many women woke up with the Arab Spring, and they will not go back to sleep.

These values are strongly supported by the American public, and U.S. law, as I believe all have said, is consistent with the principles set out in CEDAW.

The committee's power only has the power that we cede to it. It merely is in the position to make suggestions and recommendations.

Women and girls are powerful and we know what happens when that power and potential are unleashed--communities thrive, local and global communities grow, societies prosper and become more inclusive and equitable.