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Latvia delays vote on violence against women treaty

04:19

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November 6, 2025

A debate has erupted in Latvia over whether the country should stay in the Istanbul Convention. The countries that signed this treaty promise to protect women from domestic violence.

Latvia's parliament has voted to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention, a key treaty against domestic violence, sparking nationwide protests.

Critics warn the move could endanger women in a country with Europe's highest femicide rate.

Women like Ieva Ozolina share harrowing stories, while over 60,000 citizens petitioned the president, who sent the bill back for review.

A final decision on the issue has been postponed until after the 2026 elections.

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