Principles of the Istanbul Convention

The Istanbul Convention aims to prevent gender-based and domestic violence, protect those affected in the best possible way and consistently prosecute perpetrators.

Gender-based violence is directed against people on the basis of their biological or social gender. The Istanbul Convention is particularly concerned with violence against women because they are women.
This can manifest itself in various forms, including physical, sexual and psychological violence, forced marriage, stalking and economic exploitation.

The convention pays particular attention to domestic violence, which often takes place within families. The perpetrators are often (ex-)partners or male family members.

The Istanbul Convention uses the term woman to include girls under the age of 18. It also includes all people who identify as women, including intersex and trans women and girls.

The Convention also takes into account the different realities of women's lives and backgrounds that can cause specific forms of violence or make access to protection and support more difficult, such as migration, asylum or disability.

Children who witness domestic violence are also included in the Convention. Witnessing violence is understood as a personal experience of violence.

The Istanbul Convention consists of 81 articles that contain detailed guidelines for combating violence and expanding protection. These are based on four pillars:

1. Prevention
   Measures to prevent violence. For example, through education, awareness-raising and structural changes in society.
   
   
2. Protection and support
   Ensuring comprehensive protection against various forms of violence through needs-based services and comprehensive care for those affected.
   
   
3. Prosecution
   Creating and enforcing laws and supporting victims in court proceedings in order to hold perpetrators accountable.
   
   
4. Multidisciplinary approach
   Protection against violence is not just a women's policy, but also requires a cross-sectoral assumption of responsibility and cooperation.