Latvia's Controversial Exit from the Istanbul Convention

Latvia's parliament voted on Thursday to exit an international treaty designed to combat violence against women, following a break in the ruling coalition's ranks. The conservative Greens and Farmers Union joined the opposition in support, overriding the prime minister's and president's objections.

The Istanbul Convention, a Council of Europe initiative, defines violence against women as a human rights violation. Critics in Latvia argue its gender definitions exceed biological parameters and prefer existing national laws. Member of Parliament Gunars Gutris believes domestic violence protection in Latvia is unaffected by this withdrawal.

Around 5,000 people protested in Riga against this decision, with Prime Minister Evika Silina backing the treaty. Andris Suvajevs from the Progressives warned of international repercussions. Latvia’s withdrawal follows similar actions by Turkey and discussions in Poland and the Czech Republic.