Full Breakdown
Latvia's Controversial Withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention
11/1/2025, 8:27:44 AM
Parliamentary Vote to Withdraw
On October 30, 2025, the Saeima, Latvia's parliament, voted to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention, an international treaty aimed at preventing violence against women. This decision came less than two years after Latvia ratified the Convention in January 2024. The proposal for withdrawal was initiated by the opposition right-wing party, Latvia First (Latvija Pirmaja), which argued that the Convention promotes gender theories contrary to traditional family values. The vote concluded with a majority of 56 in favor and 32 against, following a lengthy 13-hour session. The ruling coalition, led by Prime Minister Evika Silina, was divided on the issue, with the Union of Greens and Farmers supporting the withdrawal while Silina's New Unity party opposed it.
Background and Context
The Istanbul Convention, drafted by the Council of Europe in 2011, has been signed by 54 countries, including all European Union member states. If Latvia's withdrawal is finalized, it would become the second country to exit the treaty, following Turkey's withdrawal in 2021. Critics of the withdrawal, including civil society organizations, argue that it undermines fundamental rights and could exacerbate domestic violence, which is already a pressing issue in Latvia.
Official Statements & Responses
Latvia's President Edgars Rinkevics has stated that he will assess the law adopted by parliament, with the option to sign it, refer it back for further discussion, or appeal to the Constitutional Court. He emphasized that his decision would be based on legal considerations rather than ideological ones. The European Commission has reiterated that Latvia must still adhere to international rules protecting women, regardless of its status concerning the Istanbul Convention.
Criticism & Opposition
Opponents of the withdrawal, including Prime Minister Silina, have expressed concern that the decision endangers women's rights and sends a negative message regarding Latvia's commitment to international human rights standards. Tamar Dekanosidze from the international women's rights organization Equality Now stated that the withdrawal emboldens anti-human rights movements across Europe. Beata Jonite, head of the MARTA Centre, criticized the politicization of the issue, arguing that the Convention is essential for protecting victims of domestic violence.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Latvia will not be a place for European ‘Liberals” — Ainars Šlesers, Founder of Latvia First
- “Those who have been brave enough to seek help are now witnessing their experiences being used for political battles,” — Evika Silina, Prime Minister of Latvia
- “Turning away from this shared commitment sends a devastating message: that women’s lives and rights are negotiable. They are not” — Carline Scheele, Director of the European Gender Equality Institute
What's Next
The next steps hinge on President Rinkevics's decision regarding the ratification of the withdrawal law, which he must make within ten days. The political landscape in Latvia may shift as the ruling coalition faces internal divisions ahead of the next parliamentary elections scheduled for autumn 2026. The implications of this decision could resonate beyond Latvia, influencing similar movements in other countries.
