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Latvia's Saeima Faces Protests Over Istanbul Convention Withdrawal

10/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Saeima will vote on October 30, 2025, on a bill to withdraw Latvia from the Istanbul Convention.
Public support for remaining is strong, with over 20,000 signatures collected.
The review is delayed until November 12 after the vote, protests outside the Saeima include about 3,000 demonstrators, and opposition parties back the bill.
Centre Marta warns withdrawal would weaken protections against violence and Latvia's international credibility.

History

Historical Context

The Istanbul Convention, established in 2011, aimed to combat violence against women across Europe. In Latvia, public support for its retention has surged, with over 20,000 signatures gathered. This debate mirrors rising nationalism in Eastern Europe, as seen in Hungary and Poland, where skepticism towards international agreements threatens commitments to human rights and could impact Latvia's standing in the European Union.

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Story summary

The Saeima will vote on October 30, 2025, on a bill to withdraw Latvia from the Istanbul Convention.
Public support for remaining is strong, with over 20,000 signatures collected.
The review is delayed until November 12 after the vote, protests outside the Saeima include about 3,000 demonstrators, and opposition parties back the bill.
Centre Marta warns withdrawal would weaken protections against violence and Latvia's international credibility.

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