The upcoming European Parliament elections will have a direct impact on the protection of rights, upholding freedoms, and combating gender-based violence across Europe. Women in various corners of Europe face abuse, harassment, and violence both online and offline. The prevalence of domestic violence has increased during lockdowns, with a significant number of women facing violence by intimate partners. LBTIQ+ women, women with disabilities, and migrant women are at even greater risk, with studies showing higher rates of sexual violence among these groups.
While the EU has ratified the Istanbul Convention and enacted legislation to combat violence against women, there is still a lack of political will to address all forms of gender-based violence. The exclusion of a consent-based definition of rape in the new law by some EU countries has raised concerns about the protection of survivors. The burden of proof often falls on the victim, making it difficult to establish lack of consent. This outdated approach needs to be challenged to ensure that informed and freely given consent is a requirement in cases of sexual violence.
Feminist movements play a crucial role in advocating for laws and policies that address gender-based violence. However, their demands for stronger legislation are often met with resistance. The European Parliament has witnessed debates on gender equality measures, with left-wing parties advocating for progress while far-right groups oppose such initiatives. The lack of harmonization in national laws across Europe on issues like rape, abortion, contraception, and LGBTQ+ rights highlights the need for consistent standards to protect all individuals regardless of where they live.
An initiative called “the most favoured European clause” aims to harmonize standards in the EU based on best-in-class laws from countries like Spain. By urging electoral candidates to commit to these standards, the initiative seeks to ensure robust protections for all Europeans. With political shifts towards conservatism in some EU countries, the upcoming elections will play a crucial role in determining the rights and freedoms of individuals, especially women. It is essential to elect officials who are attentive to grassroots groups and committed to finding solutions to address gender-based violence effectively.
Sophie Pouget, the Executive Director at the RAJA-Danièle Marcovici Foundation, emphasizes the importance of electing officials who prioritize gender equality and women’s rights. Grassroots organizations like Choisir play a vital role in advocating for progress and influencing policies that protect women from violence and discrimination. Every vote in the upcoming European Parliament elections has the potential to create a safer environment for women both at home and in public spaces. Join the conversation by contacting Euronews with your pitches or submissions to contribute to the dialogue on gender equality and women’s rights in Europe.
