The Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Convention) entered into force in Ukraine on 1 November, Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets has said.
"According to it, victims are provided with the best possible protection and support, assistance in their physical, psychological and social recovery," he explained.
However, according to Lubinets, despite the importance of the issue, especially in the conditions of a long war, there are myths about the Istanbul Convention.
"For example, that the Istanbul Convention introduces the concept of gender into the national legislation of Ukraine, which will negatively affect the institute of family. At the same time, the concept of gender equality as an equal legal status of women and men has been used in the Law of Ukraine 'On Ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women and men' since 2005 and does not cause any harm," Lubinets said.
He added that opponents of the Istanbul Convention in Ukraine also appeal to the fact that the latter contradicts religious traditions in Ukraine. However, the convention does not regulate religious norms or beliefs, but emphasizes that culture, customs, religion, traditions or so-called "virtue" should not be considered as a justification for any act of violence.