Today, the Council of Europe Expert Group on Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (GREVIO) published its first baseline evaluation report on San Marino.

The report contains a comprehensive analysis of the implementation of the provisions of the Istanbul Convention. It highlights how the recognition, by the authorities, of its importance in preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence has led to several positive developments. These include the enactment of two laws and several decrees aimed at addressing violence against women, which introduced assistance and protection measures for victims as well as several amendments to the Criminal Code. A particular emphasis is put on law-enforcement officials and on social and healthcare professionals whose training on sexual violence results in high levels of awareness of the rights and needs of women and girls who experience sexual violence and/or rape.

However, the absence of a co-ordinated approach and comprehensive action plan or strategy is resulting in several gaps in relation to the set of integrated policies and data collection required under the convention. The report also highlights the need for further steps to comply with the convention’s requirements regarding substantive law.

Regarding support services, the report welcomes the authorities’ efforts to establish a mobile phone application for victims of violence against women and domestic violence (TECUM), especially at a time when the Covid-19 health crisis has demanded innovative tools to ensure victims’ access to information and support. The authorities of San Marino fully agree with GREVIO’s assessment of the situation as stated in their letter issued to GREVIO.