The envisaged new rules, which still need to be formally approved by the Council at ministerial level, introduce new binding measures to bring down violence against women, such as by combating forced marriage and female genital mutilation and by prohibiting the disclosure of private information online without consent.

In the European Parliament the new rules were adopted by a large majority of 522 in favour and 72 against, with 27 abstentions.

CESI Secretary General Klaus Heeger said: “Together with affiliates, partners and stakeholders we have fought long for this directive to see the light of day. We campaigned for the directive to help bring down violence at work and in employment too. We are glad that we succeeded and that we played our part in this landmark achievement for women across Europe.”

The text on the directive as adopted by the European Parliament foresees an extensive list of aggravating circumstances for violence-related offenses that carry more severe criminal penalties, which also includes situations in which offences were committed “against a person made vulnerable by particular circumstances, such as a situation of dependence” or “by abusing a recognised position of trust, authority or influence.” This can encompass violence by managers against employees.

It also seeks more specialised assistance for victims of violence than has been provided for until now, including financial support and assistance to remain in or find employment.

Moreover, the text endows a special role for social partners to be involved in measures to prevent violence against women as well as in training activities for profressionals that are likely to come into contact with victims, such as policy officers and court staff. A horizontal article 40 on multiagency coordination and cooperation ensures that Member States shall put in place appropriate mechanisms to ensure an effective coordination of and effective cooperation among relevant authorities and social partners in protecting victims from violence against women and in supporting them.

Klaus Heeger concluded: “I hope that the Council will swiftly green-light the new directive. Before the EU elections in June, this would be an important sign for us to show to female citizens, workers and their families: The EU can deliver for you.”