This article examines some of the reasons why women are vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. These reasons include: violations of their economic rights, violations of their political rights, and cultural beliefs, such as the cultural value placed on virginity, fertility and the subservience of women to men in marriage. The article also discusses the role of the international community in protecting women's rights with special attention paid to the UN Commission on the Status of Women and the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women. The article concludes with recommendations to the international community to help ensure the rights of women are protected.