The ALDE Party and the ALDE Group in the Council of Europe express deep concern and disappointment over the decision of the Latvian Saeima on Thursday to support the withdrawal from the Council of Europe’s Istanbul Convention.
This step marks a serious setback for the protection of women and families from violence and runs counter to the fundamental European values of human rights, equality, and the rule of law.
ALDE Party President Svenja Hahn MEP stated:
“We urge the President of Latvia to refuse to sign this bill and to uphold Latvia’s international commitments. Withdrawing from the Istanbul Convention will not strengthen Latvia — it will isolate it from the European community that stands united against gender-based violence.”
President of the ALDE Group in the Council of Europe, Iulian Bulai MP, added:
“The Istanbul Convention is not about ideology — it is about protection, prevention, and justice. It equips professionals, social workers, and law enforcement officers with the tools they need to stop violence before it destroys lives.”
Violence against women is not a women’s issue; domestic violence is never a private matter. These are crimes that demand a clear and uncompromising response from society and the state. Every government in Europe carries the responsibility to stand with victims, not with those who excuse or deny their suffering.
European Liberals call on Latvia’s leaders — and all defenders of democracy across Europe — to resist the rise of populism, chauvinism, and disinformation, whether it originates in the Kremlin or from within any other European country. Defending the Istanbul Convention means defending human dignity, European solidarity, and the credibility of the rules-based international order that safeguards us all.
