temporary special measures

Term used in the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

This term explicitly states the ‘temporary’ nature of such special measures, while the meaning of the term ‘special’ is that the measures are designed to serve a specific goal and not to cast women subjected to discrimination as weak, vulnerable and in need of extra or ‘special’ measures in order to participate or compete in society.

The use of special measures does not suggest a special favour but rather an entitlement. Special measures are essential to secure equal opportunities in participation and competition in various fields of social life, where social, health and economic burdens may be placed on women as a result of gender stereotypes or their role in maternity.