Latvia has taken a significant step toward withdrawing from the Istanbul Convention, a treaty established by the Council of Europe. If successful, the Baltic nation would join Turkey as the second country to exit the agreement, reflecting growing resistance to what critics call globalist influence.
The convention, ratified in 2011, was framed as a measure to combat violence against women and domestic abuse. However, opponents argue it undermines national sovereignty by imposing progressive gender policies on signatory states. A parliamentary vote earlier this year saw 56 lawmakers support the withdrawal, but the process was indefinitely delayed on November 5.
Prime Minister Evika Siliņa hailed the postponement as a triumph for democracy and women’s rights, stating, “I welcome this vote. It is a victory of democracy, rule of law and women’s rights.” Despite the delay, observers speculate the withdrawal could proceed after next year’s elections.
The globalist Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) condemned Latvia’s actions, warning that abandoning the convention would harm women’s protections. “Latvia’s proposed withdrawal is a serious setback to the protection and rights of the country’s women and girls,” the OSCE said.
Right-wing populist factions, including the Latvia First Party, continue advocating for the exit. Gunars Gutris, a parliamentarian from the Greens and Farmers Union, claimed domestic violence protections already existed in Latvian law before the convention. Linda Liepina of Latvia First accused the treaty of introducing “foreign ideology” into daily life, calling it a tool of radical feminism.
The debate underscores shifting political tides across Europe, with nationalist movements gaining momentum. The outcome remains uncertain, but the push to reclaim national authority over social policies shows no signs of slowing.
