What's changing
Laws on gender-based violence are being written, debated, and delayed across Europe right now. These are the moments where pressure matters most. We track what's in motion so you know where — and when — your voice can count.
Last updated: September 2026. We update this periodically, not daily.
14 June 2027 — transposition deadline
Every EU country must turn the 2024 Directive on violence against women into national law by 14 June 2027. It sets minimum rules on cyber-violence, forced marriage, and support for victims. Watch whether your government meets the deadline.
Public consultation closed September 2026
A bill to make psychological violence and coercive control a crime was in public consultation over summer 2026 (closed early September). The government is now reviewing responses before sending it to the Council of State and Parliament.
Launched 2024 — being implemented
The national plan launched in 2024 and is being implemented, with the coercive-control bill as one of its outputs. Campaigners are pushing for it to go further.
In force since November 2025
Since November 2025, French law defines rape and sexual assault around the absence of consent — consent that must be free, informed, and revocable. A major win, and a model others are watching.
Renewed 2025 — measures funded through 2026
Spain's cross-party State Pact against Gender Violence was renewed in 2025; by early 2026 about half of its 461 measures were in place, with more funded for 2026.
Law passed 2023 — scientific committee launched late 2025
Belgium's 2023 Stop Féminicide law is being implemented; a scientific committee to analyse femicides launched in late 2025, though campaigners say progress is fragmented.
Strategy announced December 2025
The UK announced a strategy in December 2025 to halve violence against women in a decade, and is rolling out Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (covering coercive control, stalking and economic abuse) across England and Wales.
Elections are when politicians listen hardest. Ask candidates what they'll do about gender-based violence — and vote accordingly.
Presidential election · April 2027
The nearest major vote in the region. A moment to put gender-based violence on the agenda.
General election · Expected by 2027
Next general election · Not until around 2030
A snap election was held in October 2025.
Next elections · 2029
See a change we've missed, or an election we should add? Tell us.