Europe’s Mission to Be “the First Continent in the World to End Violence Against Women”

For the first time in its history, the European Union has voted in favour of laws combating violence against women and domestic violence, calling for prioritizing the safety and well-being of victims and making sexual and reproductive health services more accessible.

“Today Parliament has taken the first steps to make Europe the first continent in the world to end violence against women,” says co-rapporteur from the Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee, Frances Fitzgerald (EPP, IE). “There can be no equality without eradication of violence against women; we must ensure that there can be no impunity for those who commit such crimes.”

The new legislation – adopted with 522 in favour, 27 against, and 72 abstentions – also includes a longer list of aggravating circumstances for offences with heavier penalties. Crimes against public figures, journalists, or human rights defenders are recognized. So are actions meant to punish victims based on their gender, sexual orientation, skin colour, religion, social origin, or political beliefs. Better assistance for victims will be enforced as steps to prevent rape and stronger laws against cyber violence, which include the disclosure of private information and cyber flashing.