RIGA — Latvia’s parliament voted on Thursday to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention, a key international treaty aimed at preventing violence against women, after a ruling coalition partner sided with the opposition in defiance of the prime minister and president.
The Istanbul Convention, established by the Council of Europe, recognizes violence against women as a human rights violation and sets out measures to combat gender-based violence. Opponents in Latvia, however, argue the treaty introduces a social definition of gender that contradicts traditional values and national law.
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The Greens and Farmers Union — one of three coalition parties — broke ranks with Prime Minister Evika Siliņa’s government to support the opposition motion. The withdrawal was approved by 56 votes in the 100-seat Saeima (parliament). “This will not influence domestic violence in any way,” said MP Gunars Gutris from the Greens and Farmers Union, insisting Latvia’s laws already protect women.
The decision has sparked backlash across the country and abroad. Around 5,000 protesters gathered in central Riga on Wednesday, urging lawmakers to keep Latvia in the treaty. Prime Minister Siliņa addressed the crowd, saying the move would harm the country’s reputation within the European Union.
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Latvia, which ratified the Istanbul Convention only in 2023, now becomes the second nation to exit the pact after Turkey’s controversial withdrawal in 2021. Analysts warn the move could strain Latvia’s ties with EU partners and undermine regional gender rights commitments.