In addition to articles 2 (1) and 3 on non-discrimination (which are mirrored in arts. 2 (2) and 3 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights), article 26 ensures equality before the law and non-discriminatory protection of the law generally in force in a State. In addition, like the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, article 2 provides for the right to an effective remedy for violations of Covenant rights, including an independent and impartial forum before which allegations of such violations can be brought. The Covenant then covers the key civil and political rights and freedoms. Its article 25 guarantees the right freely to take part in public affairs, particularly through fair and periodic elections. The Covenant, in part IV, requires all State parties to report periodically to the Human Rights Committee. Two Optional Protocols supplement the Covenant and allow State parties to accept additional obligations. The first Optional Protocol, of 1966, provides for a right to individual petition; the second, of 1989, promotes the abolition of the death penalty. D. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (1979) In 1979, the international community adopted a new treaty to address discrimination against women on the basis of sex. Sex discrimination, like racial discrimination, is proscribed under the two Covenants in general terms. However, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women sets out in more detail what is meant by sex discrimination from the perspective of equality between women and men. It addresses a range of programmatic and policy aspects. The Convention’s format was modelled on that of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, but contained a number of innovations, reflecting developments in the 15 years since the latter had been adopted. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, too, begins by defining discrimination on the basis of sex. The initial articles oblige State parties both to refrain from What is discrimination against women? “Any distinction, exclusion or restriction made on the basis of sex which has the effect or purpose of impairing or nullifying the recognition, enjoyment or exercise by women, irrespective of their marital status, on a basis of equality of men and women, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural, civil or any other field” (art. 1). 9