Europe Asia News

On October 31, parliament voted to withdraw from the international human rights treaty that opposes violence against women and domestic violence.

Thirty-two MPs voted to remain in the agreement, while fifty-six voted to withdraw, claiming the convention “promotes radical feminism based on gender ideology.” Two MPs abstained.

In his letter, Rinkēvičs said, “Ratifying and terminating the convention within one parliamentary term sends a contradictory message to both Latvian society and Latvia’s international allies about the country’s readiness to fulfill its international obligations in good faith.”

He added, “It should be noted that Latvia would become the first EU member state to withdraw from an international human rights treaty. It is necessary to seriously assess whether such an action is consistent with the principle of sincere cooperation enshrined in the Treaty on European Union.”

Rinkēvičs also noted that since Latvians will go to the polls no later than October 3 next year, it might be better for the next parliament to decide the issue, suggesting that the Saeima suspend consideration for one year.

The president has the constitutional right to request that parliament reconsider its decision but cannot unilaterally revoke it.

The Council of Europe Convention, signed by 45 countries and the European Union as of 2019, aims to standardize support for women victims of violence, including domestic violence.

However, ultra-conservative groups and political parties across Europe criticize the agreement, claiming that it “promotes gender ideology,” encourages sexual experimentation, and harms children.