Greek Lawyers Oppose New Gender Based Violence Law

Greek lawyers will strike on January 23-24 to protest a gender-based violence bill, claiming it violates constitutional principles like the presumption of innocence and proportionality. They also criticized their exclusion from the drafting process.

The bill addresses emerging forms of abuse such as revenge porn, cyberstalking, and workplace harassment, with stricter penalties for repeat offenders and enhanced victim protections.

The legislation aligns with a 2024 EU directive to criminalize acts like forced marriage and cyberstalking while improving victim support services, aiming for full compliance by mid-2027.

Lawyers acknowledge the intent of the government but are arguing that the bill undermines justice and fairness.