The Istanbul Convention, ratified by Ukraine on June 20, 2022, entered into force on November 1, 2022.

It aims to prevent violence against women and domestic violence and to create effective instruments for the protection of victims.

Are there results?

– The number of complaints has increased. From November 1, 2022, to December 1, 2023, the National Hotline for the Prevention of Domestic Violence received 103,242 calls. In 2023, the police registered 136,944 cases of domestic violence.

– New institutions have been created. In particular, a coordinating body for preventing and combating domestic violence was established. Shelters for victims were opened.

– Legislation was amended. Criminal liability for domestic violence was introduced. Protection for victims of domestic violence has been strengthened.

– However, challenges remain. Not all victims are aware of their rights and how to get help. More resources are still needed to ensure the work of the newly created institutions.

 

Opinion of the National LGBTI Consortium

We believe that the Istanbul Convention is a step in the right direction. It gives hope to the victims, but its implementation still has some obstacles. Only time will tell if Ukraine has the political will to implement it fully.