Ratification of Istanbul Convention would demonstrate readiness to address problem of violence against women - politicians

CESIS - The ratification of the Istanbul Convention would be a confirmation that in Latvia we are aware of the problem of violence against women and are ready to work on its prevention, said Minister of Justice Inese Libina-Egnere (New Unity) and Minister of Welfare Evika Silina (New Unity) at a New Unity council meeting in Cesis on Saturday.

Libina-Egnere mentioned a specific case when a spouse caused serious bodily harm to a woman, but for the time being has been released, justifying this person having "good character". Also referring to this situation, the Minister of Justice called for recognition that violence against women is unreasonably tolerated, that some choose to ignore it, and as a result, the victim is left all by herself.

The failure to ratify the Istanbul Convention against violence against women is due to the fact that we do not fully recognize the existence of this problem, the politician noted.

Recognizing that this problem exists - violence against women - we will also be able to deal with it, emphasized Libina-Egnere.

Speaking on another topic, Welfare Minister Silina highlighted that she wants to reform the State Inspectorate for the Protection of Children's Rights in order, among other things, to give more opportunities to vulnerable children.