Greece's New Law Addressing Gender-Based Violence Faces Legal Protests from Lawyers

Greek lawyers have announced a nationwide strike for January 23-24 to oppose a new bill addressing gender-based violence. They argue it breaches constitutional principles, particularly the presumption of innocence. The bar associations' coordinating committee expressed concerns about the bill's legal implications and their exclusion from its drafting process.

The proposed legislation, introduced to parliament this week, aims to tackle forms of abuse not covered by current laws. It addresses issues like revenge porn, cyberstalking, and workplace sexual harassment. The bill proposes harsher penalties, including imprisonment without suspension for repeat offenders, and strengthens victim protections.

Legal Concerns and Constitutional Issues

Lawyers argue that the draft law undermines key constitutional principles. "The core provisions of the draft law violate the presumption of innocence, the separation of powers, and the principle of proportionality," stated the coordinating committee. They also criticised the government's exclusion of legal experts from the drafting process.

The bill aligns with a 2024 European Union directive aimed at preventing violence against women and domestic violence. This directive mandates member states to criminalise acts like forced marriages and cyberstalking. It also requires robust protection and support services for victims, with national legislation to be updated by mid-2027.

Increased Awareness and Support Services

Growing awareness of domestic violence in Greece has led to increased reports since 2020. This rise is partly due to better public knowledge of available support services. Police and volunteer organisations have noted this trend, which coincides with a government initiative to establish a national shelter network last year.

The shelter programme was launched after a tragic incident involving a 28-year-old woman who was fatally stabbed outside a police station while seeking protection from her ex-boyfriend. This event highlighted the urgent need for improved protective measures for victims of domestic violence.

Enhanced Protections for Victims

The new bill includes measures to protect minors from online harassment and provisions for electronic monitoring of perpetrators. These reforms aim to enhance safety for victims while imposing stricter consequences on offenders. The government's efforts to address domestic violence have received support despite criticisms of the draft legislation's construction.

The Greek legal associations acknowledge the government's intention to combat domestic violence but criticise the bill's structure. They argue that it fails to uphold essential legal principles, raising concerns about its potential impact on justice and fairness within the legal system.

This legislative effort reflects broader European initiatives to strengthen protections against gender-based violence. By aligning with EU directives, Greece aims to ensure comprehensive measures are in place to safeguard victims and hold perpetrators accountable across member states.