Dutch Gender-Neutral Policies Under Fire: GREVIO Report

GREVIO, an expert group from the Council of Europe, criticizes the Netherlands' gender-neutral approach to domestic violence, emphasizing that it risks overlooking women's victimization. The report calls for a focused strategy on gendered power dynamics, suggesting current policies may minimize women's protection and affect child custody rights.

A European expert panel has criticized the Netherlands for its gender-neutral domestic violence policies, arguing they disproportionately endanger women. The group, GREVIO, highlights that these policies could obscure the specific victimization of women and adversely impact their rights and protections.

GREVIO, representing the Council of Europe, emphasizes the importance of recognizing gendered power dynamics in intimate partner violence. Their report notes the potential downsides of the Dutch approach, which ranks highly on gender equality but may fail in addressing significant issues in domestic violence cases. They advocate for more shelters and better support mechanisms.

The Dutch government acknowledges GREVIO's recommendations and plans to reflect critically on its current policies. This response comes as concerns rise over persistently high numbers of women affected by domestic violence in the country. Experts warn that without acknowledging the gendered nature of these crimes, comprehensive protection and effective policies may remain elusive.

(With inputs from agencies.)