Women’s rights – Istanbul Convention (11 May 2022)

Today marks the 11th anniversary of the start of the signing period for the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, better known as the Istanbul Convention. It is the most complete international legal instrument we have when it comes to preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, protecting victims and bringing perpetrators to justice. It is open to universal ratification.

For France’s pro-feminist diplomatic policies, the fight against sexual and gender-based violence is a priority. France has chaired the Committee of the Parties to the Istanbul Convention since February 1. In that capacity, we are actively engaged in promoting the Convention and making it universal. France calls on all nations that have signed the Convention to accelerate their efforts to achieve its universal ratification and encourages all countries concerned to become States Parties.