Latvian Parliament Votes to Withdraw from Istanbul Convention

On October 30, 2025, Latvia's Parliament voted to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention, a treaty aimed at combating violence against women. The decision followed a 13-hour debate and was supported by both opposition lawmakers and members of the ruling coalition. Prime Minister Evika Siliņa criticized the move as politically harmful and insensitive to victims. Opponents argued that the treaty promotes 'gender ideology' and threatens traditional values. The vote sparked significant public backlash, with thousands protesting in Riga in defense of the convention. International rights organizations warned that the withdrawal could embolden anti-human rights movements across Europe.