NEWS

Law hits domestic violence

A bill which aims to create the toughest set of measures in Greece against domestic violence and intends to outlaw the smacking of children, was unveiled yesterday by Justice Minister Anastassis Papaligouras. The draft law bans adults from using violence against minors and people deemed to be defenseless, such as the disabled or the elderly. Mental abuse is also outlawed, according to the bill. People who abuse their spouses can be charged by prosecutors without anyone else filing a complaint. Courts will be able to place restrictions on the aggressor to protect the victim and the use of violence will be considered grounds for divorce. The bill, however, also allows judges or prosecutors to act as mediators if the victim expresses a desire to reconcile any differences in the couple’s relationship. If passed into law, the new legislation will also make it illegal for one partner to force the other into having sex. All the measures in the bill are applicable to both married couples and unmarried couples who live together.

Subscribe to our Newsletters

Enter your information below to receive our weekly newsletters with the latest insights, opinion pieces and current events straight to your inbox.

By signing up you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.