Ad Hoc Committee on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (CAHVIO)

On 7 April 2011, the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe adopted of a landmark new Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (Convention CETS No. 210).
This Convention is the first legally binding instrument in the world creating a comprehensive legal framework to prevent violence, to protect victims and to end with the impunity of perpetrators. It defines and criminalises various forms of violence against women (including forced marriage, female genital mutilation, stalking, physical and psychological violence and sexual violence).
It also foresees the establishment of an international group of independent experts to monitor its implementation at national level.
The Convention was opened for signature in Istanbul on 11 May 2011 and was signed by 13 countries.

The Convention and its explanatory report
 

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