The new law will __________ the rights of women.

The correct answer is protect. When a new law is enacted concerning rights, its primary function is often to protect those rights, meaning to keep them safe from harm, infringement, or violation. Laws are designed to safeguard the entitlements and freedoms of individuals or groups, ensuring they are upheld and respected. Let's examine why the other options are less suitable: Prevent means to stop something from happening or arising. While a law might prevent violations of rights, the overarching action of a law regarding rights is to protect them. "Protect" encompasses the idea of preventing harm while also affirming the existence and validity of the rights. Protest means to express an objection or disapproval, which is an action taken by people, not by a law itself in this context. Promote means to support or actively encourage something. While a law might promote equality or certain values, the direct action on existing "rights" is to ensure their security and enforcement, which is best described by "protect."