Currently, 9 out of 10 victims of domestic violence within the European Union are women. Furthermore, between 12 and 35 percent of women, depending on the member state, are victims of intimate partner violence. These figures clearly delineate the gender dimension of this serious and persistent issue in Europe.
A new regulation has been passed within the European Union, which will increase the protection of victims of violence across internal borders. Whilst this is a positive step forward, the inequality of protection services in different member states remains vast. The regulation is particularly directed towards the protection of female victims of violence and so does recognise the importance of a gender-based approach. However, more action is needed to ensure the comprehensive protection of victims of gender-based violence and to move towards its eradication in the EU.
This International Symposium will analyse the existing challenges in shaping a truly comprehensive and holistic strategy and toolkits for tackling the gender dimension of intimate partner violence. The Symposium will examine the role of organisations at all levels, and of society in general, in moving to eliminate all form of domestic and gender-based violence.
The Symposium will support the exchange of ideas and encourage delegates to engage in thought-provoking topical debate with local and regional practitioners and policymakers at EU level.