ZONTA SAYS NO: Strengthening Protection Against Violence!

Good news for women’s rights! Germany has recently adopted a new strategy (2025-2030) to combat violence against women, for implementing the Istanbul Convention. The Violence Assistant Act (‘GEWALTHILFEGESETZ’) has been adopted by Bundestag – with cross-party support!

Zonta in Germany actively accompanied this process, advocating for stronger laws and better protection. This is a powerful example of successful advocacy with Zonta – proving that our commitment drives real change!

How do other countries in our district protect against violence?

Germany is not alone in strengthening its legal framework against violence. All five countries in District 27 have ratified the Istanbul Convention and are continuously improving their legislation to protect women. Here’s how they are taking action:

Belgium (Ratified 2016)

• Law on the Prevention of Partner Violence and Femicide (2023)

• Law on Temporary Restraining Orders (2013)

• Law on Victim Protection (2006, 2012, 2017)

France (Ratified 2014)

• Loi Schiappa (2018): Strengthened fight against gender-based & sexual violence.

• Laws of 2010: Introduced "incest" & a 6-day protection order.

• Loi Pelletier (1980): First legal definition of rape as a crime.

Germany (Ratified 2018)

• Criminalization of Digital Violence (2023): Covers cyberstalking, image-based abuse, deepfake misuse.

• Criminalization of Stalking (2017, tightened 2021): Expanded measures against persistent harassment.

• Rape Law Reform ("No Means No", 2016): Redefined rape based on lack of consent.

• Protection Against Violence Act (2002, amendment pending 2024/25): Legal support for victims of domestic violence.

Luxembourg (Ratified 2018)

• Law of July 20, 2018: Implements the Istanbul Convention

• Law on Domestic Violence (2003): Strengthened protective measures (www.violence.lu).

Ukraine (Ratified 2022)

• Amendments to the Criminal Code (2019): Tougher penalties for sexual violence.

• Law on Preventing & Combating Domestic Violence (2018): Criminalizes psychological, economic & sexual abuse.

As part of #ZontaSaysNO, we stand for a world free from violence against women. Progress is happening – but there is more to do! 

Great initiative from D27 Advocacy Chair Christiane Lemberg and D27 Chair Digital Communication Ute Watermeyer! Bravo!