Greece's New Domestic Violence Legislation Faces Criticism Over Lack of Preventative Measures

In an effort to tackle the alarming rise in domestic violence cases, Greece has introduced new legislation aimed at imposing stricter penalties for offenders. However, critics argue that the recently passed law fails to adequately address preventative measures needed to protect potential victims.The new law, passed on Friday with 157 votes in the 300-seat Greek Parliament, reflects the ruling government’s majority. It introduces tougher pretrial detention protocols and changes court obligations for victims, allowing individuals to avoid appearing in court without sanction. This legislative move aims to align with a European Union directive initiated in 2024 targeting domestic violence reduction.During intense Parliamentary debates, opposition lawmakers expressed concerns that the focus on punishment overshadowed necessary protective measures. They argue that the legislation lacks critical initiatives such as public awareness campaigns and enhanced access to legal assistance for victims. Women’s advocacy groups, legal experts, and judges echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the legislative response only partially fulfills the requirements set by the EU framework.Ioannis Bougas, Greece’s deputy justice minister, defended the new law, stating it strengthens protections for domestic violence victims. Anna Vouyioukas, an advocacy officer at the Diotima Center, a nonprofit organization in Athens that supports victims, called the legislation a “missed opportunity.” She lamented that it largely neglects provisions needed to safeguard especially vulnerable groups, including the LGBTQ+ community, older adults, migrants, and the impoverished.The ongoing discussions around the law reveal a critical need for a holistic approach that not only penalizes offenders but also provides comprehensive support for victims, thereby contributing to the sustained reduction of domestic violence in Greek society.