Global policies for respectful childbirth and women's rights
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Table: Global Policies for Respectful Childbirth and Women’s Rights
M. D. C. P., a Spanish citizen, submitted a communication to the CEDAW Committee on November 10, 2018, alleging that Spain violated her rights under various articles of the Convention due to the obstetric violence she suffered during childbirth in a hospital. The complaint, filed with legal representation, was based on the violation of her fundamental rights. On June 2, 2020, the Committee received a third-party intervention, which was forwarded to both parties for comments. The decision was adopted on February 24, 2023.
The Committee recommends that Spain provide full reparation to the author, including financial compensation for the physical and psychological harm suffered. It urges the State to ensure adequate maternal healthcare, protect women from mistreatment during childbirth, require informed consent for invasive procedures, and train healthcare and judicial personnel on reproductive rights and obstetric violence. Additionally, it calls for effective remedies, data collection on obstetric violence, awareness campaigns to challenge gender stereotypes, the development of a "Patient’s Rights Charter," and legislative reforms to recognize obstetric violence as gender-based violence. Spain must submit a report within six months detailing the measures taken and widely disseminate the Committee’s findings.
