Istanbul Convention Divides Nations Worldwide
The Istanbul Convention, a Council of Europe treaty aimed at combating violence against women and gender inequality, faces a divided response from nations worldwide. While many European countries have signed and ratified it, others have refused or withdrawn due to political and cultural reasons.
Initially, 34 countries ratified the IC by 2019, but opposition soon emerged, with some nations arguing it promotes 'gender ideology' challenging traditional gender roles. Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, and Turkey (which withdrew in 2021) refused to ratify or withdrew from the IC due to this opposition. Meanwhile, left-leaning or centrist governments, especially those aligned with the EU, are more inclined to ratify the IC, while right-wing governments are less likely to support it.
Four distinct pathways for countries to ratify the IC were identified: role model countries, EU dependents, pro-EU governments overcoming opposition, and 'tame' Catholicism. However, the presence of a homogeneous religious majority, especially in countries with dominant Catholic or Orthodox Christian traditions, strengthens opposition to the IC.
Despite initial broad support, the Istanbul Convention now faces a complex political and cultural landscape. Its future depends on navigating these divisions and addressing the concerns of those who oppose it.
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