Latvia’s parliament voted 56 to 32 with 2 abstentions to approve legislation that will pull the country out of the Istanbul Convention, a landmark Council of Europe treaty aimed at preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence. The proposal passed after a heated 13-hour debate that underscored deep divisions within the ruling coalition and across Latvian society.
From Ratification to Withdrawal Swift Policy Reversal
Latvia had only ratified the Istanbul Convention in November 2023 and brought it into force in May 2024. Now, less than two years later, the parliament is moving to exit it. Supporters of the withdrawal argue that national laws already cover domestic violence and that the treaty introduces what they call gender ideology beyond biological sex. Opponents warn that the move undermines women’s protections and damages Latvia’s standing in Europe.
Political Obstacles and Coalition Strains
The vote revealed fractures in the government coalition. The governing partnership includes Prime Minister Evika Siliņa’s centre-right party, the Union of Greens and Farmers, and a centre-left group. The Union of Greens and Farmers broke ranks and joined opposition members to push the withdrawal through.
Siliņa condemned the move, saying that victims of abuse were being used as political pawns. She wrote on social media, “Those who have been brave enough to seek help are now witnessing their experiences being used for political battles. It is cruel.
Public Protest and Human Rights Outcry Rises
Outside the parliament in Riga, thousands of protesters gathered to voice their alarm. Approximately 5,000 people rallied against the withdrawal, some with mouths taped shut and hands tied behind their backs, in a symbolic act highlighting silenced victims.
Human-rights groups such as Amnesty International and Equality Now condemned the decision. Amnesty urged Latvia’s president to use his veto power to halt the exit, calling the vote appalling and dangerous .
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