Istanbul Convention Saves Lives
The Istanbul Convention, or the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence, was adopted in November 2011. This treaty seeks to address gender-based violence in all its various forms. Members are expected to amend their laws to define and criminalize violence against women and children, provide public education, and protect victims by establishing strong support services, in line with international standards.
The Istanbul Convention is a guarantee for women's and LGBTI+ human rights. Although the Convention focuses on the elimination of violence against women, it encourages governments to implement protections in cases of gender, race, sexual orientation, and age-based violence and discrimination.
Today the Istanbul Convention is under attack.
March 2021: Turkey announces withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention
July 2020: Poland announces withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention
Take Action
Contact the Turkish Embassy to urge it to remain party to the Istanbul Convention:
2525 Massachusetts Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20008
Tel: 202-612-6700
Fax: 202-612-6744
Send an email to the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey urging them to reconsider.
