On January 24, 2025, Greece implemented more stringent laws targeting domestic violence, spurred by a notable rise in reported incidents. The legislative changes, which focus primarily on punitive measures, have faced backlash for not adequately addressing preventive strategies essential for combating domestic abuse effectively.
Greece Strives to Combat Domestic Violence with New Legislation
Greece Strives to Combat Domestic Violence with New Legislation
Newly enacted laws toughen penalties for domestic violence perpetrators, but critics argue they fall short of comprehensive prevention measures.
The Greek Parliament has enacted a law to impose harsher penalties on those guilty of domestic violence, reflecting an urgent response to increasing reports of such offenses. The legislation, supported by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis's conservative government, includes provisions for extended pretrial detention and limits on the ability to suspend sentences. A significant aspect of the new law is the removal of the requirement for victims to appear in court, aimed at alleviating the trauma they may face during legal proceedings.
In an attempt to meet EU guidelines established in 2024, advocates have expressed discontent with the scope of the new law. Critics argue it presents only a superficial adherence to the broader European framework, lacking in necessary preventive measures such as education campaigns aimed at raising awareness and providing better access to legal support for victims.
Ioannis Bougas, the deputy justice minister, defended the legislation, asserting that it enhances the protective framework for victims of domestic violence, emphasizing the government's commitment to tackling this pressing issue. Nevertheless, groups like the Diotima Center in Athens, a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding domestic violence victims, have called the legislation a "missed opportunity." They contend that the law does not sufficiently protect marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, older adults, migrants, and those in socio-economic distress.
As Greece looks to align its legal framework with international standards, the effectiveness of these new measures will largely depend on their implementation and the commitment to fostering a holistic approach that prioritizes both punitive actions and preventive strategies against domestic violence.
In an attempt to meet EU guidelines established in 2024, advocates have expressed discontent with the scope of the new law. Critics argue it presents only a superficial adherence to the broader European framework, lacking in necessary preventive measures such as education campaigns aimed at raising awareness and providing better access to legal support for victims.
Ioannis Bougas, the deputy justice minister, defended the legislation, asserting that it enhances the protective framework for victims of domestic violence, emphasizing the government's commitment to tackling this pressing issue. Nevertheless, groups like the Diotima Center in Athens, a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding domestic violence victims, have called the legislation a "missed opportunity." They contend that the law does not sufficiently protect marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, older adults, migrants, and those in socio-economic distress.
As Greece looks to align its legal framework with international standards, the effectiveness of these new measures will largely depend on their implementation and the commitment to fostering a holistic approach that prioritizes both punitive actions and preventive strategies against domestic violence.
