Istanbul Convention Backlash

"We must not forget we live in the most free and safe time, and that is why we are facing this big backlash - because this is their last stand."

In the face of coordinated attacks, civil society plays an increasingly crucial role in defending women's right to be free from violence. Despite rising challenges, women's human rights defenders have mounted successful campaigns engaging thousands of women in support of the Istanbul Convention.

The Istanbul Convention, entered into force in 2014, explicitly defines violence against women and domestic violence as human rights violations which ratifying states must prevent and punish. Despite initial momentum, the Istanbul Convention faces growing opposition.