From year to year, femicide becomes a growing global problem, with which Serbia is also confronted. Since the beginning of the year until mid-May, according to the media and information of the civil society 13 women were killed, which confirms that the problem of violence against women is still very present, said Commissioner for the Protection of Equality Brankica Janković on the occasion of the National Day of Remembrance of the victims of domestic violence.

By more frequent reporting of violence, women have shown that they have become stronger despite the firm grip of patriarchy.  Therefore, support for victims should be a priority of the whole society, and the reaction of the competent authorities to reported violence more effective, says the Commissioner.  Recent cases of femicide showed that among the victims were the women who had previously reported violence, as well as cases of repeated violence, which the Commissioner particularly pointed out to the Republic Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Ministry of Justice.

The Commissioner has sent an initiative to amend the Law on Execution of Criminal Sanctions relating to the introduction of compulsory notification of the victim that the convicted person is released from prison, as well as to amend the Criminal Code to ensure its compliance with the Istanbul Convention.

Notwithstanding the progress achieved in the protection from violence, it is necessary to continuously improve human capacities, their ongoing education and mutual coordination, better risk assessment, as well as finding new methods for solving the problem of gender-based violence.  Applied practice in some countries can be useful, especially with when it comes to the use of modern technology.  It is important that public authorities more decisively demonstrate commitment to respond appropriately to this kind of violence as well, and to inform the public of the measures taken, the Commissioner concluded.