The Greek Parliament has moved decisively toward tougher domestic violence laws in response to rising cases, but advocates argue the new measures fall short of comprehensive protection for all victims.
Greece Enhances Domestic Violence Laws, But Advocates Demand More
Greece Enhances Domestic Violence Laws, But Advocates Demand More
Increased penalties for perpetrators are introduced, yet critics emphasize a lack of preventative measures in new legislation.
On January 24, 2025, lawmakers in Greece enacted new legislation aimed at addressing domestic violence, escalating penalties for abusers amidst mounting reports of such incidents. However, many advocates for victims believe the reforms lack essential preventative strategies.
During intense sessions in Parliament, opposition members contended that the ruling conservative party, under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, focused too heavily on punitive actions without adequately addressing prevention. The newly enacted law introduces extended pretrial detention periods and restricts the ability to suspend sentences, ensuring that victims are no longer required to testify in court.
While this legislation aligns with a 2024 European Union directive intended to combat domestic violence, legal experts and women's advocacy organizations deem it only a partial implementation of the proposed framework. Critics highlight the absence of key measures, such as public awareness campaigns and improved access to legal resources for victims.
Deputy Justice Minister Ioannis Bougas defended the legislation prior to its passage on Friday by stating that it enhances protective frameworks for victims. Ultimately, the bill garnered approval with 157 votes in the 300-member Parliament, mainly reflecting the ruling party’s control.
Anna Vouyioukas, an advocacy officer from the Diotima Center, an Athens-based organization supporting domestic violence victims, labeled the law a “missed opportunity.” She emphasized that the current legislation fails to include critical protections for marginalized groups, such as LGBTQ individuals, elderly people, migrants, and lower-income communities, without sufficient justification.
Despite progress, many voices remain unsettled, pressing for more robust and inclusive measures to protect all victims of domestic violence in Greece.
During intense sessions in Parliament, opposition members contended that the ruling conservative party, under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, focused too heavily on punitive actions without adequately addressing prevention. The newly enacted law introduces extended pretrial detention periods and restricts the ability to suspend sentences, ensuring that victims are no longer required to testify in court.
While this legislation aligns with a 2024 European Union directive intended to combat domestic violence, legal experts and women's advocacy organizations deem it only a partial implementation of the proposed framework. Critics highlight the absence of key measures, such as public awareness campaigns and improved access to legal resources for victims.
Deputy Justice Minister Ioannis Bougas defended the legislation prior to its passage on Friday by stating that it enhances protective frameworks for victims. Ultimately, the bill garnered approval with 157 votes in the 300-member Parliament, mainly reflecting the ruling party’s control.
Anna Vouyioukas, an advocacy officer from the Diotima Center, an Athens-based organization supporting domestic violence victims, labeled the law a “missed opportunity.” She emphasized that the current legislation fails to include critical protections for marginalized groups, such as LGBTQ individuals, elderly people, migrants, and lower-income communities, without sufficient justification.
Despite progress, many voices remain unsettled, pressing for more robust and inclusive measures to protect all victims of domestic violence in Greece.
