Efforts to strengthen the institutional response to sexual violence in Republika Srpska through a consent-based approach were advanced during a round-table discussion held in Banja Luka on 4 May.

The discussion focused on ongoing initiatives to amend the Criminal Code of Republika Srpska in line with the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Convention), with the aim of improving legal and institutional responses to sexual violence.

Participants examined how sexual offences can be interpreted from the perspective of freely given consent and discussed the forms, prevalence and consequences of sexual violence. Particular attention was given to the impact on victims, as well as to common misconceptions and stereotypes that can weaken institutional responses and discourage reporting.

The discussions also touched upon challenges faced by judges and prosecutors in handling rape cases, especially regarding sentencing practices and prosecutorial approaches. The discussions highlighted the importance of a victim-centred, gender-sensitive and co-ordinated response across the justice system, including stronger co-operation between courts, prosecutors and other relevant institutions.

The event brought together representatives of the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Family, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ministry of Interior, as well as judicial and gender-equality institutions in Republika Srpska.

The round table was organised by the Council of Europe in co-operation with the Centre for Gender Equality and Equity of Republika Srpska as part of ongoing efforts to support reforms aimed at strengthening protection for victims of sexual violence.

This roundtable discussion was organised as part of the project “Strengthening Bosnia and Herzegovina's responses to digital and sexual violence against women” implemented by the Council of Europe under the Action plan for Bosnia and Herzegovina 2026-2029 and funded through voluntary contributions.