ISTANBUL CONVENTION
Mister President
I would like to thank the rapporteur for this important and timely report.
Iceland signed the Istanbul Convention on the same day it was adopted but ratified it seven years later in 2018. Numerous other states have ratified the Convention. However, as is the case with progressive international treaties on women’s rights, ratification and full implementation have taken time in several Council of Europe member states.
The value and impact of the Convention are profound. It is the first legally binding international treaty to comprehensively address violence against women. The Convention clearly states that violence against women and girls is unacceptable.
While the Convention focuses on violence against women, protection systems must be effective for all victims of violence. This includes boys and men who are also victims of violence in the family and at home. Nevertheless, it cannot be ignored that the majority of victims of domestic violence are women. Violence against them within the home is part of a wider pattern of discrimination and inequality.
Unfortunately, we are witnessing a broader backlash against the Convention. This is evident, for example, in the withdrawal of Türkiye, as well as in recent political debates in some member states, such as Latvia, about the possibility of withdrawal. Women’s rights organizations and the general public must fight against this backlash.
The Convention has had a positive impact in Iceland. Amendments have been made to the general penal code to better address intimate partner violence and sexual violence. The definition of rape has also been changed in law. The definition now focuses on the absence of consent rather than the use of force.
Provisions on digital sexual violence and stalking have been strengthened in line with the Convention. Services for victims have been improved. with increased emphasis on protection and assistance, although further progress is still needed.
Thank you