Estonia's PM Kristen Michal Condemns Latvia's Istanbul Convention Withdrawal

Michal's comments add to growing criticism of Latvia's move. She warns it 'shouts down' those who've experienced domestic violence.

, and Administrator

2025 November 2 . 9:05 AM

1 min read

Here men and women are standing, these are flags.

Estonia's PM Kristen Michal Condemns Latvia's Istanbul Convention Withdrawal

Estonia's Prime Minister Kristen Michal has spoken out against Latvia's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention, suggesting it silences victims of domestic violence. Michal's comments come after Lithuania's new Prime Minister Inga Ruginene also condemned Latvia's move.

Michal, while not directly addressing the inclusion of LGBT* rights in the convention, expressed concern that Latvia's withdrawal sends a message that undermines women's rights. She believes it 'shouts down' those who have experienced domestic violence.

Latvia's current Prime Minister, Evika Siliņa, had previously opposed the withdrawal, describing it as 'cruel'. Despite her stance, the Latvian parliament, Saeima, approved the withdrawal on October 31, 2025, with crucial support from one of her coalition parties.

Estonia has joined the chorus of criticism against Latvia's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention. Michal's comments highlight the potential impact of the move on victims of domestic violence and women's rights more broadly.