THE EUROPEAN UNION’S ACCESSION TO THE ISTANBUL CONVENTION AND ITS INDIRECT ENFORCEMENT: STRENGTHENING THE EUROPEAN VALUES

Abstract

This paper analyses how the European Union’s process of accession to the Istanbul Convention has driven progress in the fight against violence against women in various ways. On one hand, the EU’s accession to this international treaty imposes an obligation on EU institutions to ensure its enforcement, as well as its indirect application to Member States. On the other hand, actions taken by EU institutions, while awaiting the resolution of delays in the Council regarding the Convention’s ratification, have led to significant progress in combating gender-based violence. All of this strengthens equality and the protection of human rights within the EU, thereby reinforcing its core values.