As we close another year, we are proud to reflect on the incredible work, collaboration, and impact we have achieved together. 2024 has been a year of significant progress in advancing women’s rights, fostering equality, and amplifying the voices of women across Europe. In the face of challenges, we have stood strong, united, and determined to shape a future that is equitable, inclusive, and free of violence. From advocating for gender justice to empowering women’s leadership, the European Women’s Lobby continues to be a driving force for change.

Here below you can read about the highlights of the year 2024:

European Commission Network for the Prevention of Violence Against Women

The Network for the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG),established under the Gender Equality Strategy, is coordinated by the European Commission. This network brings together national experts to exchange best practices, address challenges, and discuss emerging issues.

The European Women’s Lobby (EWL) has been actively participating in the network, using the space to advocate for key demands related to the Directive and to address issues from an abolitionist perspective.

GREVIO’s First Thematic Evaluation: Building Trust by Providing Support, Protection and Justice

GREVIO launched its first thematic evaluation procedure in October 2022, following the adoption of its questionnaire. This evaluation focuses on assessing progress in implementing key provisions of the Istanbul Convention related to:

• Standards for law enforcement agencies and criminal justice actors,
• Provision of general and specialist support services for victims, and
• Promoting an overall victim-centred approach.
• Access the GREVIO Questionnaire here
• View the Provisional Timeline for this Evaluation Round

As part of this ongoing evaluation, GREVIO has already provided reports with recommendations for Spain and Austria. These documents may offer valuable insights.

Additionally, during the October Observatory meeting, Laura Albu (President of the Romanian Women’s Lobby and member of GREVIO) kindly shared slides on shadow reporting/alternative reporting to GREVIO. You can access them here.

While we currently have no updates on the GREVIO evaluation for the EU, it is anticipated that meetings with GREVIO may take place in Spring 2026. By then, it will be essential to have an EU alternative report ready.

Finally, GREVIO has published its Fifth Report of Activities, which includes an in-depth section on the role of risk assessment and risk management in preventing violence. Read the report here.

Please also note that the European Disability Forum (EDF) has prepared a guide on how to monitor the implementation of the Istanbul Convention, which can be downloaded here.

Other Key Updates

• The United Nations General Assembly is currently working on a report on tech-facilitated violence with the support of Prof. Van de Heyning. Organisations are encouraged to contribute to this work by providing inputs.
• The European Commission is developing a Code of Conduct for platforms, which will align with the Digital Services Act (DSA) as a way to strengthen enforcement and accountability. The EWL previously engaged with the Commission on this initiative.

Additional Resources You May Find Interesting

• Analysing Hate Speech Against Women on Instagram: A compelling report by Sandra Lopes Miranda examining the prevalence and impact of hate speech targeting women on Instagram. Read the full report here.
• “Don’t Let the Silence Speak” – A Campaign on Prostitution and Bystander Intervention:  This impactful Swedish campaign calls on bystanders to take action against prostitution and human trafficking. Learn more about the initiative here.
• ViolencesSexuellesEnLigne.be & Cybersquad.be – Tools for Young People: These practical toolkits offer guidance and resources to help young people navigate online sexual violence. Explore the platforms: www.violencessexuellesenligne.be | www.cybersquad.be.
• BBC Documentary: The Case of Alexander McCarthy: A shocking investigation into a 20-year-old perpetrator of online child abuse and grooming across 28 countries. Watch this eye-opening documentary here.
• Smartphone-Free Childhood Movement: This grassroots initiative promotes a smartphone-free childhood, supporting communities and parents to protect children’s development. Discover local groups and their mission here.