Renew Europe calls on President Erdoğan to reverse his decision to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention
In a time when the COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased violence against women, it is remarkable and regrettable that Turkey decides to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention. The convention, which is the first of its kind and a legally binding international instrument to combat violence against women and domestic violence, is more important than ever.
Renew Europe condemns Turkey's shameful decision. We now call on President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to listen to the voices of thousands of Turkish women who are demonstrating for their rights and protection; reverse your decision.
President of Renew Europe, Dacian Cioloș, says "We welcome the de-escalation in the Eastern Mediterranean. Turkey has sent some positive signals and we hope that it will continue on this path. However, we cannot forget that Turkey wants to join the EU and has committed to be a democratic state with a strong commitment to the rule of law. The announced withdrawal of Turkey's signature from the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence is just one in a long series of unacceptable and shameful gestures that undermines the credibility of Turkey's democratic commitment. The Istanbul Convention is an achievement for all women in the world, it is not conceivable to accept any setback. Turkish women can count on our support.
If President Erdoğan wants to return to a fruitful partnership with the EU, he must understand that fundamental rights and values are a non-negotiable part of it."
Soraya Rodríguez, Member of the Committee on Gender Equality and Women's rights, adds: "Turkey's decision to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention is a clear sign of the deterioration of human rights in the country and sends a dangerous message at international level. This is especially worrying at a time when we have to stand united to eradicate violence against women that has increased significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic."
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Caroline Rhawi
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