The Council of Europe’s Group of Experts on Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (GREVIO) published its first evaluation report on Sweden today. The report analyses the implementation of the provisions of the Istanbul Convention covering psychological violence, stalking, physical violence, sexual violence - including rape - forced marriage, female genital mutilation, forced abortion, forced sterilisation and sexual harassment. It also covers domestic violence against women.
GREVIO highlights the numerous legislative and policy measures adopted in Sweden over the past 40 years that clearly demonstrate its commitment to preventing and combating violence against women. Innovative approaches have gained Sweden international recognition as a strong leader in this area, which this evaluation confirms in many regards. GREVIO especially welcomes the “only yes means yes” approach of the newly amended criminal offence of rape and the strong response of the authorities to the #metoo campaign. The government practice of routinely evaluating policies and measures in order to uncover shortcomings and gaps is also praised in the report.
