This page presents the responses of various Council of Europe (CoE) bodies of particular relevance for the protection of women’s rights during the crisis.

CoE Secretary General

Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić concerned about increased risk of domestic violence

CoE Committee of the Parties

Declaration to the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Convention) on the implementation of the Convention during the COVID-19 pandemic
The Declaration outlines possible measures to take during the COVID-19 pandemic under select provisions of the Istanbul Convention.

CoE Group of Experts on Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (GREVIO)

Statement by the President of GREVIO, Marceline Naudi, on the need to uphold the standards of the Istanbul Convention in times of a pandemic
"For many women and children, the home is not a safe place."

CoE Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA)

In time of emergency the rights and safety of trafficking victims must be respected and protected
The CoE GRETA draws attention to the particular difficulties experienced by victims of human trafficking, who generally find themselves in a position of great insecurity and vulnerability.