The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia has ratified the Council of Europe’s Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (Istanbul Convention). Macedonia is the 29th state to ratify the Istanbul Convention, which will enter into force for the country on July 1, 2018.
The Istanbul Convention, named for its adoption in Istanbul, Turkey in 2011, is Europe's first comprehensive treaty designed to combat all forms of violence against women, including stalking, sexual harassment, rape, domestic violence, forced marriage and female genital mutilation. It requires states to strengthen their efforts in four primary areas: protection of victims, prevention of violence, prosecution of perpetrators, and provision of victim services, such as shelters and medical care. An expert group, GREVIO, monitors state compliance with the Convention.
Compiled from: "The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" ratifies the Istanbul Convention, Council of Europe, Istanbul Convention News (March 23, 2018).