Latvia’s parliament has voted 56–32 to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention, the global treaty against violence toward women. The decision, led by the right-wing Latvia First party and backed by some ruling coalition members, awaits approval from President Edgars Rinkēvičs.
Supporters called the convention “radical feminism,” while opponents warned that the move endangers women’s rights. If confirmed, Latvia would be the first European Union country, and only the second globally, after Turkey, to withdraw from the treaty.
Compiled From: Giedré Peseckyte, “Latvia’s parliament votes to quit global treaty protecting women”, Politico, Oct. 31, 2025.