Belgium’s Commitment to Ending Gender-Based and Digital Violence 

Belgium pursues a holistic approach to preventing and responding to gender-based violence, including violence facilitated by digital technologies. This includes work at national, European and international levels, and in development cooperation.

Nationally, Belgium implements an inter-federal National Action Plan to Combat All Forms of Gender-Based Violence, in line with the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (Istanbul Convention). The plan covers prevention, protection, prosecution and coordinated policies, and involves federal and regional authorities as well as specialised institutions such as the Institute for the Equality of Women and Men.

Belgium has introduced measures such as legislation on feminicide, coercive control and improved risk assessment and management, as well as specialised Sexual Assault Care Centres to provide medical, psychological and legal support to survivors.

Internationally, Belgium supports UN Women and UNFPA, including through core funding, and contributes to initiatives such as the Spotlight Initiative and the Global Survivors Fund. Belgium also led UN Human Rights Council Resolution 56/19 on technology-facilitated gender-based violence, which calls for stronger international attention and concrete recommendations on digital forms of abuse.

Through A Safe Journey With Her, the Embassy of Belgium in Bangkok and Benelux partners work with Thai authorities, UN Women, UNFPA and local stakeholders to connect these global commitments with local action, focusing on families, youth and communities.