This study aims to analyse the international legal framework for cooperation among states in combating gender-based violence on the current stage of international law development. The article explores approaches to addressing the issues formulated to implement the provisions of key international legal documents on combating gender-based violence adopted at both universal and regional levels. By synthesizing existing scholarly materials, the degree and level of theoretical elaboration of the problem of gender-based violence within international law were determined, thus addressing key international legal issues regulating gender-based violence. The main international treaties, resolutions, decisions of international organizations, and governmental decisions aimed at ensuring women's equal rights were analysed, with special attention given to the analysis of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. The correlation and mutual influence of international and national law on the status of women in contemporary society were traced. The institution of women's rights protection within international law was reviewed, identifying its functions, tasks, and methods. The activities of major structures within the UN system (including specialized agencies such as WHO, UNFPA, etc.), regional intergovernmental, and non-governmental organizations in ensuring gender equality were considered. It is recommended, based on the provisions of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, which has regional application, taking into account its advantages and disadvantages, as well as the implementation practice, the development of a universal convention on combating violence against women is proposed, which will contribute to the standardization of approaches of relevant human rights treaty bodies within the UN system on this issue. Keywords: international law, international treaties, Istanbul Convention, gender-based violence, state positive obligations, discrimination.
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