On 31 March 2025, the Council of Europe’s Gender Equality Division, in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family of the Hellenic Republic, held a conference on improving victim support services for victims of sexual violence in Greece. The event brought together over 70 representatives from ministries, government agencies, police, civil society organisations, and experts to discuss the findings of a report aimed at improving services for victims of sexual violence.
The participants discussed key insights from the report which support implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence in Greece. Developed under the Ending Violence against Women: Multi-Country Programme, this report identified points worth reinforcing and challenges within Greece’s current victim support system and proposed measures to align with international standards set by the Convention.
Participants engaged in discussions around strengthening Greece’s response to sexual violence, with a focus on improving legal frameworks, enhancing professional training, and ensuring better coordination between stakeholders. Best practices from other Council of Europe member states were showcased as potential models to address Greece’s specific needs. International case studies were also explored, including how other models could be adapted to the Greek context in order to enhance victim support services, especially victims of sexual violence.
Deputy Minister of Social Cohesion and Family Elena Rapti stated: “The protection and support of victims of sexual violence is a top priority for the state. This event, with the participation of representatives from all relevant bodies – ministries, services, Police, civil society – demonstrates in practice our commitment to cooperation, substantive dialogue and improvement of the services provided. The report presented highlights the possibilities for strengthening the victim support system, as well as good practices that are already being implemented and can be expanded. Based on its findings, we are moving forward with determination to strengthen structures, train professionals, align with international standards and, above all, implement the Istanbul Convention in a meaningful and effective manner. It is our duty, with consistency and dedication, to ensure that every victim finds support, safety and justice.”
For further information, please see:
