From ratification to integration: a critical analysis of the domestic incorporation of CEDAW in Sri Lanka

Udani, Gammanpila Imiyage Don Isankhya (2026) From ratification to integration: a critical analysis of the domestic incorporation of CEDAW in Sri Lanka. LL.M(R) thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

Sri Lanka, as a state party to CEDAW and its Optional Protocol, has undertaken the obligation to respect, protect, promote, and fulfil the treaty at the national level. This thesis examines the extent to which CEDAW has been integrated into the Sri Lankan legal system and addresses the inadequacies, obstacles and challenges that impede the treaty's full and effective domestic incorporation at the national level. Selecting ‘Sri Lanka’ as a case study offers valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by a multicultural, multi-ethnic country with a pluralistic legal system and a colonial history that strives to achieve substantive equality and nondiscrimination for women, in line with CEDAW. The main objectives of this thesis are to identify the challenges and obstacles that prevent Sri Lanka from fully and effectively integrating CEDAW into its domestic legal system and to provide recommendations to address them. To achieve these objectives, the research utilises the socio-legal methodology to explore how socio-cultural factors affect the practical implementation of the CEDAW principles in Sri Lanka.

• Item Type: Thesis (LL.M(R))
• Qualification Level: Masters
• Keywords: CEDAW, domestic incorporation (of an international treaty), gender equality, non-discrimination, state obligation, Sri Lanka.
• Subjects: K Law > K Law (General)
• Colleges/Schools: College of Social Sciences > School of Law
• Supervisor's Name: Mair, Professor Jane and McPherson, Dr. Rachel
• Date of Award: 2026
• Depositing User: Theses Team
• Unique ID: glathesis:2026-86058
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 23 Jun 2026 15:29
• Last Modified: 23 Jun 2026 15:34
• Thesis DOI: 10.5525/gla.thesis.86058
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/86058