### 1. reiterates the importance of the conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit , which underline that we are still living in unprecedented times; notes that covid-19 and the russian war of aggression against ukraine on our doorstep resulted in the cost of living and energy crises , which are hitting the most vulnerable groups in our society the hardest , leading to increasing inequalities; reiterates the importance of the epsr as a guiding compass to a more social europe; stresses , however , that the resulting headline targets for 2030 set out by the commission and endorsed by the council on employment , skills and poverty are insufficient to ensure its full implementation; stresses that the epsr is a powerful tool to ensure that the european project can act as a powerful shield protecting the health , safety and living conditions of its people; ### 1. reiterates the importance of the conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit , which underline that we are still living in unprecedented times; notes that covid-19 and the russian war of aggression against ukraine on our doorstep resulted in the cost of living and energy crises , which are hitting the most vulnerable groups in our society the hardest , leading to increasing inequalities;


### 1. reiterates the importance of the conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit , which underline that we are still living in unprecedented times; notes that covid-19 and the russian war of aggression against ukraine on our doorstep resulted in the cost of living and energy crises , which are hitting the most vulnerable groups in our society the hardest , leading to increasing inequalities; reiterates the importance of the epsr as a guiding compass to a more social europe; stresses , however , that the resulting headline targets for 2030 set out by the commission and endorsed by the council on employment , skills and poverty are insufficient to ensure its full implementation; stresses that the epsr is a powerful tool to ensure that the european project can act as a powerful shield protecting the health , safety and living conditions of its people; ### 1. reiterates the importance of the adaption of conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit , which underline that we are still living in unprecedented times; notes that covid-19 and the ongoing russian war of aggression against ukraine on our doorstep resulted in the cost of living and energy crises , which are hitting the most vulnerable groups in our society the hardest , leading to increasing inequalities; reiterates the importance of the epsr as a guiding compass to a more social europe; stresses that the epsr is a powerful tool to ensure that the european project can act as a powerful shield protecting the health , safety and living conditions of its people;


### 2. calls on the commission and the council to take measures to mitigate the impact of the crises on member state labour markets in order to keep employment rates high; calls therefore on the commission , the member states and eu social partners to commit to reaching collective bargaining coverage of at least 80 % by 2030 , with a view to improving living and working conditions in the eu , which will contribute to upward social convergence and reduce in-work poverty , social exclusion and wage inequality; ### 2. calls on the commission and the council to take measures to mitigate the impact of the crises on member state labour markets in order to keep employment rates high; calls therefore on the commission , the member states and eu social partners to work towards a higher collective bargaining coverage , with a view to improving living and working conditions in the eu , which will contribute to upward social convergence and reduce in-work poverty , social exclusion and wage inequality;


### 3. welcomes the above-mentioned conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit; welcomes the adoption of the directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu3 and the soon-to-be adopted directive on pay transparency4 ; urges the council to agree on a general approach concerning the directive for platform work5 in order to improve worker protection in the platform economy and to create fair competition; welcomes the commission’s commitment to occupational health and safety in the workplace; welcomes the commission’s commitment to follow up with a legislative proposal after the adoption of parliament’s resolution of 2 february 20236 ; welcomes the launch of a two-stage consultation of eu social partners; ### 3. welcomes the conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit; welcomes the commission’s commitment to occupational health and safety in the workplace;


### 3. welcomes the above-mentioned conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit; welcomes the adoption of the directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu3 and the soon-to-be adopted directive on pay transparency4 ; urges the council to agree on a general approach concerning the directive for platform work5 in order to improve worker protection in the platform economy and to create fair competition; welcomes the commission’s commitment to occupational health and safety in the workplace; welcomes the commission’s commitment to follow up with a legislative proposal after the adoption of parliament’s resolution of 2 february 20236 ; welcomes the launch of a two-stage consultation of eu social partners; ### 3. welcomes the above-mentioned conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit; welcomes the adoption of the directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu3 ; welcomes the commission’s commitment to occupational health and safety in the workplace; welcomes the commission’s commitment to follow up with a legislative proposal after the adoption of parliament’s resolution of 2 february 20236 ; welcomes the launch of a two-stage consultation of eu social partners;


### 4. notes that , even with the support to mitigate unemployment risks in an emergency (sure) instrument as part of the european unemployment reinsurance scheme , the economic fallout of the covid-19 crisis has lasted longer than anticipated; highlights , however , that thousands of jobs were saved thanks to this instrument and that the shock to the labour market was less severe than expected; notes , in this regard , that this instrument should remain in use for the duration of the current exceptional situation and continue to be based on loans and quickly activated only in the event of external financial or economic shocks; ### 4. notes that , even with the support to mitigate unemployment risks in an emergency (sure) instrument as part of the european unemployment reinsurance scheme , the economic fallout of the covid-19 crisis has lasted longer than anticipated; highlights , however , that thousands of jobs were saved thanks to this instrument and that the shock to the labour market was less severe than expected;


### 5. calls on the commission to put forward a legal framework for an effective and enforceable ban on unpaid internships , traineeships and apprenticeships; welcomes the european year of skills and highlights the importance of access to training and reskilling for workers in industries and sectors that need to undergo fundamental changes in order to achieve the green and digital transitions , ensuring no one is left behind; calls on the commission to consider a directive on adequate minimum income in order to ensure the reintegration of people absent from the labour market , while respecting the principle of subsidiarity , the specificities of national social protection systems and the competences of the member states; welcomes the commission’s commitment to presenting a proposal , by the end of 2023 , on the creation of an eu disability card to be recognised in all member states; welcomes the ongoing negotiations of the social partners on the right to disconnect , with a view to putting forward a legally binding agreement implemented via a directive; calls on the commission to put forward a legislative proposal for a european social security pass to provide national authorities , such as labour and social security inspectorates , and social partners involved in labour and social security inspections with a real-time instrument to effectively enforce national and eu law; ### 5. welcomes the european year of skills and highlights the importance of access to training and reskilling for workers in industries and sectors that need to undergo fundamental changes in order to achieve the green and digital transitions , ensuring no one is left behind; welcomes the commission’s commitment to presenting a proposal , by the end of 2023 , on the creation of an eu disability card to be recognised in all member states; welcomes the ongoing negotiations of the social partners on the right to disconnect , with a view to putting forward a legally binding agreement implemented via a directive; calls on the commission to put forward a legislative proposal for a european social security pass to provide national authorities , such as labour and social security inspectorates , and social partners involved in labour and social security inspections with a real-time instrument to effectively enforce national and eu law;


### 5. calls on the commission to put forward a legal framework for an effective and enforceable ban on unpaid internships , traineeships and apprenticeships; welcomes the european year of skills and highlights the importance of access to training and reskilling for workers in industries and sectors that need to undergo fundamental changes in order to achieve the green and digital transitions , ensuring no one is left behind; calls on the commission to consider a directive on adequate minimum income in order to ensure the reintegration of people absent from the labour market , while respecting the principle of subsidiarity , the specificities of national social protection systems and the competences of the member states; welcomes the commission’s commitment to presenting a proposal , by the end of 2023 , on the creation of an eu disability card to be recognised in all member states; welcomes the ongoing negotiations of the social partners on the right to disconnect , with a view to putting forward a legally binding agreement implemented via a directive; calls on the commission to put forward a legislative proposal for a european social security pass to provide national authorities , such as labour and social security inspectorates , and social partners involved in labour and social security inspections with a real-time instrument to effectively enforce national and eu law; ### 5. welcomes the european year of skills and highlights the importance of access to training and reskilling for workers in industries and sectors that need to undergo fundamental changes in order to achieve the green and digital transitions , ensuring no one is left behind; calls on the commission to respect the principle of subsidiarity , the specificities of national social protection systems and the competences of the member states; welcomes the commission’s commitment to presenting a proposal , by the end of 2023 , on the creation of an eu disability card to be recognised in all member states; welcomes the ongoing negotiations of the social partners on the right to disconnect; calls on the commission to put forward a legislative proposal for a european social security pass to provide national authorities , such as labour and social security inspectorates , and social partners involved in labour and social security inspections with a real-time instrument to effectively enforce national and eu law;


### 6. notes that , although many legislative and non-legislative initiatives have been initiated by the commission , so far the eu has fallen short on fully implementing the epsr; stresses the need for further legislative action by the commission and the member states to ensure its full implementation , with a specific focus on implementing principles 11 (childcare) , 12 (social protection) , 19 (housing) and 20 (essential services); ### deleted


### 7. recalls that principle 11 on childcare and support to children requires further action; urgently reminds the commission and the member states about parliament’s repeated call to urgently allocate more funding to the european child guarantee , with a dedicated budget of at least eur 20 billion; ### deleted


### 8. warns that , for the correct implementation of principle 12 , adequate social protection needs to be expanded in order to cover the risks associated with the unequal impact of climate change and environmental degradation on different income groups , as well as the social consequences of the transformation of our societies towards climate neutrality; calls on the commission and the member states to build upon the social climate fund and lay the foundations for the development of green social protection schemes at national level with eu support; ### 8. warns that , for the correct implementation of principle 12 , adequate social protection needs to be expanded in order to cover the risks associated with the unequal impact of climate change and environmental degradation on different income groups , as well as the social consequences of the transformation of our societies towards climate neutrality;


### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; ### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; calls on the member states to work on instruments that would create affordable , accessible and attractive offer for young persons and families to finance their first house;


### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; ### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need;


### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; ### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; highlights in this respect the importance of the european platform on combatting homelessness and stresses the need to further realise its work and ambitions.


### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; ### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030;


### 10. expresses its concern about the lack of access to essential services (principle 20) , which have come under additional stress; urges the commission to present a revision of the services of general and economic interest; ### 10. expresses its concern about the lack of access to essential services (principle 20) , which have come under additional stress;


### 11. reiterates its call that , in the light of the framework of the green deal industrial plan , eu funding , including state aid , should be conditional on public policy objectives , in particular social requirements , in order to offer high-quality jobs , promote collective bargaining , respect eu labour rights and standards and ensure improved working conditions; calls on the commission and the member states to enforce the social clause in the existing directive on public procurement7 and to revise the directive in order to further strengthen social clauses in public contracts to require economic operators and subcontractors to fully respect the right of workers to collective bargaining , to account for the recently adopted directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu; ### deleted


### 11. reiterates its call that , in the light of the framework of the green deal industrial plan , eu funding , including state aid , should be conditional on public policy objectives , in particular social requirements , in order to offer high-quality jobs , promote collective bargaining , respect eu labour rights and standards and ensure improved working conditions; calls on the commission and the member states to enforce the social clause in the existing directive on public procurement7 and to revise the directive in order to further strengthen social clauses in public contracts to require economic operators and subcontractors to fully respect the right of workers to collective bargaining , to account for the recently adopted directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu; ### 11. reiterates its call that , in the light of the framework of the green deal industrial plan , eu funding , including state aid , should be conditional on public policy objectives , in particular social requirements , in order to offer high-quality jobs , promote collective bargaining , respect eu labour rights and standards and ensure improved working conditions;


### 12. highlights the need to strengthen the social dimension of the european semester and the implementation of the epsr , especially in the light of the economic governance review; calls on the commission to consider presenting an instrument for upward social convergence in order to prevent social convergence risks , detect potential setbacks in the proper implementation of the epsr and establish social targets; believes that social divergence risks should be included in the country-specific recommendations and taken into account when laying out fiscal adjustment paths; ### deleted


### 13. believes that , in order to make a fair and social europe a reality and to ensure the highest levels of social protection in the green and digital transitions , it is necessary to ensure a sustainable , fair and inclusive europe where social rights are fully protected and safeguarded to at least the same level as economic and environmental standards; stresses the need to take steps to reinforce the role of the epsr to ensure the equal treatment of the economic , environmental and social standards and to ensure that social standards and social rights in europe are placed at the centre of the eu’s forthcoming political practices; notes that , consequently , social investment will be needed for the implementation of the epsr in upcoming funding initiatives and the revision of the multiannual financial framework; ### deleted


### 13. believes that , in order to make a fair and social europe a reality and to ensure the highest levels of social protection in the green and digital transitions , it is necessary to ensure a sustainable , fair and inclusive europe where social rights are fully protected and safeguarded to at least the same level as economic and environmental standards; stresses the need to take steps to reinforce the role of the epsr to ensure the equal treatment of the economic , environmental and social standards and to ensure that social standards and social rights in europe are placed at the centre of the eu’s forthcoming political practices; notes that , consequently , social investment will be needed for the implementation of the epsr in upcoming funding initiatives and the revision of the multiannual financial framework; ### 13. believes that , in order to make an innovative and social europe a reality it is necessary to ensure an economically and ecologically sustainable and inclusive europe where socioeconomic and environmental aspects are fully covered; stresses the need to take steps to reinforce the role of the epsr to ensure the equal treatment of the economic , environmental and social standards and to ensure that social standards and social rights in europe are placed at the centre of the eu’s forthcoming political practices; notes that , consequently , social investment will be needed for the implementation of the epsr in upcoming funding initiatives and the revision of the multiannual financial framework;


### 15. calls on the commission to present a governance framework to anticipate and manage changes related to the green and digital transitions in the world of work , focusing first on the importance of safeguarding jobs , including access to adequate training , and second , on the involvement of social partners in decision-making processes; ### 15. calls on the commission to present a governance framework to anticipate and manage changes related to the economic , green and digital transitions in the world of work , focusing first on the importance of safeguarding jobs , including access to adequate training , and second , on the involvement of social partners in decision-making processes;


### 16. reiterates the importance of a well-functioning european labour authority (ela) and calls on the commission to make use of the opportunity presented by the evaluation due 1 august 2024 to submit a legislative proposal to review the scope of the ela’s founding regulation9 and realise its full potential , especially concerning the ela’s inquiry powers; ### 16. reiterates the importance of a well-functioning european labour authority (ela);


### (1) the purpose of this directive is to provide a comprehensive framework to effectively combat violence against women and domestic violence throughout the union. it does so by strengthening and introducing measures in the following areas: the definition of relevant criminal offences and penalties , the protection of victims and access to justice , victim support , prevention , coordination and cooperation. ### (1) the purpose of this directive is to provide a comprehensive framework to effectively prevent and combat violence against women and domestic violence , including cyberviolence , throughout the union by means of education and awareness raising , including teaching programmes for young people and information campaigns. it does so by strengthening and introducing measures in the following areas: the definition of relevant criminal offences and penalties , the effective protection of victims and access to justice , victim support , prevention , coordination and cooperation , ensuring effective collaboration between national , regional and local authorities and between eu member states to combat violence against women and domestic violence.


### (2) equality between women and men and non-discrimination are core values of the union and fundamental rights enshrined , respectively , in article 2 of the treaty on european union and in articles 21 and 23 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union (the ‘charter’). violence against women and domestic violence endanger these very principles , undermining women and girls’ rights to equality in all areas of life. ### (2) equality between women and men and non-discrimination are core values of the union and fundamental rights enshrined , respectively , in article 2 of the treaty on european union and in articles 21 and 23 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union (the ‘charter’). violence against women and domestic violence endanger these very principles , undermining women and girls’ rights to equality in all areas of life. the contribution made by discrimination and gender stereotypes to the perpetuation of violence against women and domestic violence must be recognised.


### (3) violence against women and domestic violence violate fundamental rights such as the right to human dignity , the right to life and integrity of the person , the prohibition of inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment , the right to respect for private and family life , personal data protection , and the rights of the child , as enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union. ### (3) violence against women and domestic violence , including cyberviolence , violate fundamental rights such as the right to human dignity , the right to life and integrity of the person , the prohibition of inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment , the right to respect for private and family life , personal data protection , and the rights of the child , as enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union. the directive must ensure that measures taken to combat violence against women and domestic violence comply with international human rights standards.


### (4) this directive should apply to criminal conduct which amounts to violence against women or domestic violence , as criminalised under union or national law. this includes the criminal offences defined in this directive , namely rape , female genital mutilation , the non-consensual sharing of intimate or manipulated material , cyber stalking , cyber harassment , cyber incitement to violence or hatred and criminal conduct covered by other union instruments , in particular directives 2011/36/eu36and 2011/93/eu37of the european parliament and of the council , which define criminal offences concerning the sexual exploitation of children and trafficking of human beings for the purpose of sexual exploitation. lastly , certain criminal offences under national law fall under the definition of violence against women. this includes crimes such as femicide , sexual harassment , sexual abuse , stalking , early and forced marriage , forced abortion , forced sterilisation and different forms of cyber violence , such as online sexual harassment , cyber bullying or the unsolicited receipt of sexually explicit material. domestic violence is a form of violence which may be specifically criminalised under national law or covered by criminal offences which are committed within the family or domestic unit or between former or current spouses. ### (4) this directive should apply to criminal conduct which amounts to violence against women or domestic violence , as criminalised under union or national law. this includes the criminal offences defined in this directive , namely rape , female genital mutilation , the non-consensual sharing of intimate or manipulated material , cyber stalking , cyber harassment , online falsification , blackmail and threats , child pornography , cyber incitement to violence or hatred and criminal conduct covered by other union instruments , in particular directives 2011/36/eu36and 2011/93/eu37 of the european parliament and of the council , which define criminal offences concerning the sexual exploitation of children and trafficking of human beings for the purpose of sexual exploitation. lastly , certain criminal offences under national law fall under the definition of violence against women. this includes crimes such as femicide , sexual harassment , sexual abuse , stalking , early and forced marriage , forced abortion , forced sterilisation and different forms of cyber violence , such as online sexual harassment , cyber bullying or the unsolicited receipt of sexually explicit material. domestic violence is a form of violence which may be specifically criminalised under national law or covered by criminal offences which are committed within the family or domestic unit or between former or current spouses , consisting of behaviour that may include physical , sexual , emotional , psychological or economic abuse. the abuser may be a partner or family member and the victims may be adults or children. the aim of domestic violence is to control and dominate the partner or family members.


### (4) this directive should apply to criminal conduct which amounts to violence against women or domestic violence , as criminalised under union or national law. this includes the criminal offences defined in this directive , namely rape , female genital mutilation , the non-consensual sharing of intimate or manipulated material , cyber stalking , cyber harassment , cyber incitement to violence or hatred and criminal conduct covered by other union instruments , in particular directives 2011/36/eu36 and 2011/93/eu37 of the european parliament and of the council , which define criminal offences concerning the sexual exploitation of children and trafficking of human beings for the purpose of sexual exploitation. lastly , certain criminal offences under national law fall under the definition of violence against women. this includes crimes such as femicide , sexual harassment , sexual abuse , stalking , early and forced marriage , forced abortion , forced sterilisation and different forms of cyber violence , such as online sexual harassment , cyber bullying or the unsolicited receipt of sexually explicit material. domestic violence is a form of violence which may be specifically criminalised under national law or covered by criminal offences which are committed within the family or domestic unit or between former or current spouses. ### (4) this directive should apply to criminal conduct which amounts to violence against women or domestic violence , as criminalised under union or national law. this includes the criminal offences defined in this directive , namely rape , female genital mutilation , the non-consensual sharing of intimate or manipulated material , cyber stalking , cyber harassment , cyber incitement to violence or hatred and criminal conduct covered by other union instruments , in particular directives 2011/36/eu36 and 2011/93/eu37 of the european parliament and of the council , which define criminal offences concerning the sexual exploitation of children and trafficking of human beings for the purpose of sexual exploitation. lastly , certain criminal offences under national law fall under the definition of violence against women. this includes crimes such as femicide , sexual harassment , sexual abuse , stalking , early and forced marriage , forced abortion , forced sterilisation and different forms of cyber violence , such as online sexual harassment , cyber bullying or the unsolicited receipt of sexually explicit material. domestic violence is a form of violence which may be specifically criminalised under national law or covered by criminal offences which are committed within the family or domestic unit or between former or current spouses or intimate partner.


### (5) the measures under this directive have been designed to address the specific needs of women and girls , given that they are disproportionately affected by the forms of violence covered under this directive , namely violence against women and domestic violence. this directive , however , acknowledges that other persons may also fall victim to these forms of violence and should benefit from the measures provided for therein. therefore , the term ‘victim’ should refer to all persons , regardless of their sex or gender. ### (5) the measures under this directive have been designed to address the specific needs of women and girls , given that they are disproportionately affected by the forms of violence covered under this directive , namely violence against women and domestic violence. this directive , however , acknowledges that other persons may also fall victim to these forms of violence and should benefit from the measures provided for therein. therefore , the term ‘victim’ should refer to all persons , regardless of their sex.


### (5) the measures under this directive have been designed to address the specific needs of women and girls , given that they are disproportionately affected by the forms of violence covered under this directive , namely violence against women and domestic violence. this directive , however , acknowledges that other persons may also fall victim to these forms of violence and should benefit from the measures provided for therein. therefore , the term ‘victim’ should refer to all persons , regardless of their sex or gender. ### (5) the measures under this directive have been designed to address the specific needs of women and girls , given that they are disproportionately affected by the forms of violence covered under this directive , namely violence against women , domestic violence and cyberviolence. this directive , however , acknowledges that other persons may also fall victim to these forms of violence and should benefit from the measures provided for therein. therefore , the term ‘victim’ should refer to all persons , regardless of their sex or gender , in order to eliminate stereotypes and discrimination leading to violence against women.


### (6) due to their vulnerability , children who witness violence against women or domestic violence suffer a direct emotional harm , which impacts their development. therefore , such children should be considered victims and benefit from targeted protection measures. ### (6) due to their vulnerability , children who witness violence against women or domestic violence suffer a direct emotional harm. such “witnessed violence” , i.e. experiencing any form of ill-treatment , carried out through acts of physical , verbal , psychological , sexual and economic violence against reference figures or other affectively significant figures , has very serious consequences on the psychological and emotional development of the child , and can generate traumas that are sometimes permanent on the ability to interact socially during childhood and adulthood. therefore , such children should be considered victims and benefit from targeted protection measures. it is essential to give due attention to this type of violence in separations and parental custody arrangements , taking into account the best interest of the child , in particular in order to determine custody and visitation rights in separation cases.


### (6) due to their vulnerability , children who witness violence against women or domestic violence suffer a direct emotional harm , which impacts their development. therefore , such children should be considered victims and benefit from targeted protection measures. ### (6) due to their vulnerability , children who are exposed to acts of violence , such as violence against women or domestic violence , are directly affected and suffer emotional harm , which damages their personal and professional development. therefore , such children should be considered victims and benefit from targeted protection measures. the directive must state how the proposed measures are intended to help children recover from trauma and what will be done to prevent these children from becoming victims or perpetrators in the future.


### (7) violence against women is a persisting manifestation of structural discrimination against women , resulting from historically unequal power relations between women and men. it is a form of gender-based violence , which is inflicted primarily on women and girls , by men. it is rooted in the socially constructed roles , behaviours , activities and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for women and men , generally referred to under the term ‘gender’. ### (7) violence against women is a persisting manifestation of structural discrimination against women , resulting from historically unequal power relations between women and men.


### (7) violence against women is a persisting manifestation of structural discrimination against women , resulting from historically unequal power relations between women and men. it is a form of gender-based violence , which is inflicted primarily on women and girls , by men. it is rooted in the socially constructed roles , behaviours , activities and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for women and men , generally referred to under the term ‘gender’. ### (7) violence against women is a persisting manifestation of structural discrimination against women , resulting from historically unequal power relations between women and men. it is a form of gender-based violence , which is inflicted primarily on women and girls , by men. it is rooted in the socially constructed roles , behaviours , activities and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for women and men , generally referred to under the term ‘gender’. it is necessary to emphasise that violence against women , which is rooted in socially constructed roles , behaviours , activities and attributes , runs counter to the values of the european union , which promote equality and respect for all citizens.


### (8) domestic violence is a serious social problem which often remains hidden. it can lead to serious psychological and physical trauma with severe consequences because the offender typically is a person known to the victims , whom they would expect to be able to trust. such violence can take on various forms , including physical , sexual , psychological and economic. domestic violence may occur whether or not the offender shares or has shared a household with the victim. ### (8) domestic violence is a serious social problem which often remains hidden , meaning that it is the responsibility of the authorities and society as a whole to combat domestic violence through preventive measures and through education. it can lead to serious psychological and physical trauma with severe medium and long-term consequences because the offender typically is a person known to the victims , whom they would expect to be able to trust. such violence can take on various forms , including physical , sexual , psychological and economic. domestic violence may occur whether or not the offender shares or has shared a household with the victim.


### (9) in light of the specificities related to these types of crime it is necessary to lay down a comprehensive set of rules , which addresses the persisting problem of violence against women and domestic violence in a targeted manner and caters to the specific needs of victims of such violence. the existing provisions at union and national levels have proven to be insufficient to effectively combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence. in particular , directives 2011/36/eu and 2011/93/eu concentrate on specific forms of such violence , while directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council38 lays down the general framework for victims of crime. while providing some safeguards for victims of violence against women and domestic violence , it is not set out to address their specific needs. ### (9) in light of the specificities related to these types of crime it is necessary to lay down a comprehensive set of rules , which addresses the persisting problem of violence against women and domestic violence in a targeted manner and caters to the specific needs of victims of such violence. in particular , directives 2011/36/eu and 2011/93/eu concentrate on specific forms of such violence , while directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council38 lays down the general framework for victims of crime. while providing some safeguards for victims of violence against women and domestic violence , it is not set out to address their specific needs.


### (9) in light of the specificities related to these types of crime it is necessary to lay down a comprehensive set of rules , which addresses the persisting problem of violence against women and domestic violence in a targeted manner and caters to the specific needs of victims of such violence. the existing provisions at union and national levels have proven to be insufficient to effectively combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence. in particular , directives 2011/36/eu and 2011/93/eu concentrate on specific forms of such violence , while directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council38lays down the general framework for victims of crime. while providing some safeguards for victims of violence against women and domestic violence , it is not set out to address their specific needs. ### (9) in light of the specificities related to these types of crime it is necessary to lay down a comprehensive and harmonised set of rules at european level , which addresses the persisting problem of violence against women and domestic violence , including cyberviolence directed at women , in a targeted and effective manner and caters to the specific short , medium and long-term needs of victims of such violence. the existing provisions at union and national levels have proven to be insufficient to effectively combat and prevent violence against women , domestic violence and cyberviolence. in addition to legislative and victim protection measures , a holistic approach is needed that also addresses the underlying causes of this behaviour and promotes the european values of respect , responsibility and compassion in society. in particular , directives 2011/36/eu and 2011/93/eu concentrate on specific forms of such violence , while directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council38 lays down the general framework for victims of crime. while providing some safeguards for victims of violence against women and domestic violence , it is not set out to address their specific needs.


### (9) in light of the specificities related to these types of crime it is necessary to lay down a comprehensive set of rules , which addresses the persisting problem of violence against women and domestic violence in a targeted manner and caters to the specific needs of victims of such violence. the existing provisions at union and national levels have proven to be insufficient to effectively combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence. in particular , directives 2011/36/eu and 2011/93/eu concentrate on specific forms of such violence , while directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council38 lays down the general framework for victims of crime. while providing some safeguards for victims of violence against women and domestic violence , it is not set out to address their specific needs. ### (9) victims are often still unable to fully exercise their rights in the eu and access to support services is critical to women exposed violence. victims often face difficulties in obtaining justice due to lack of information and insufficient support and protection and often face secondary victimisation and when claiming compensation. in light of the specificities related to these types of crime it is necessary to lay down a comprehensive set of rules , which addresses the persisting problem of violence against women and domestic violence in a targeted manner and caters to the specific needs of victims of such violence. the existing provisions at union and national levels have proven to be insufficient to effectively combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence. in particular , directives 2011/36/eu and 2011/93/eu concentrate on specific forms of such violence , while directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council38 lays down the general framework for victims of crime. while providing some safeguards for victims of violence against women and domestic violence , it is not set out to address their specific needs.


### (10) this directive supports the international commitments the member states have undertaken to combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence , in particular the united nations convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (cedaw)39 and , where relevant , the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (‘istanbul convention’)40 and the international labour organization’s convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work , signed on 21 june 2019 in geneva. ### (10) this directive supports the international commitments the member states have undertaken to combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence , in particular the united nations convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (cedaw)39 and , where relevant , the international labour organization’s convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work , signed on 21 june 2019 in geneva.


### (10) this directive supports the international commitments the member states have undertaken to combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence , in particular the united nations convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (cedaw)39 and , where relevant , the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (‘istanbul convention’)40 and the international labour organization’s convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work , signed on 21 june 2019 in geneva. ### (10) this directive supports the international commitments the member states have undertaken to combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence , in particular the united nations convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (cedaw)39 , the un convention on the rights of the child , the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities (crpd)39a , and the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (‘istanbul convention’)40 and the international labour organization’s convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work , signed on 21 june 2019 in geneva.


### (11) violence against women and domestic violence can be exacerbated where it intersects with discrimination based on sex and other grounds of discrimination prohibited by union law , namely nationality , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation. member states should therefore pay due regard to victims affected by such intersectional discrimination , through providing specific measures where intersecting forms of discrimination are present. in particular , lesbian , bisexual , trans , non-binary , intersex and queer (lbtiq) women , women with disabilities and women with a minority racial or ethnic background are at a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence. ### (11) violence against women and domestic violence , including cyberviolence , can be exacerbated where it intersects with discrimination based on sex , sexual orientation , gender expression , migration status and other grounds of discrimination prohibited by union law , namely nationality , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation , stressing the importance of taking responsibility for tackling the prejudice and discrimination that contribute to the increased risk of domestic violence in these groups. member states should therefore pay due regard to victims affected by such intersectional discrimination , through providing specific measures where intersecting forms of discrimination are present. in particular , lesbian , bisexual , trans , non-binary , intersex and queer (cyberviolence) women , women with disabilities and women with a minority racial or ethnic background are at a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence.


### (12) victims of violence against women and domestic violence are at an increased risk of intimidation , retaliation , secondary and repeat victimisation. particular attention should thus be paid to these risks and to the need to protect the dignity and physical integrity of such victims. ### (12) victims of violence against women and domestic violence are at an increased risk of intimidation , retaliation , secondary and repeat victimisation. particular attention should thus be paid to these risks and to the need to protect the dignity and physical and spiritual integrity of such victims.


### (12) victims of violence against women and domestic violence are at an increased risk of intimidation , retaliation , secondary and repeat victimisation. particular attention should thus be paid to these risks and to the need to protect the dignity and physical integrity of such victims. ### (12) victims of violence against women and domestic violence , including cyberviolence , are at an increased risk of intimidation , harassment , retaliation , secondary and repeat victimisation , having profound psychological effects and impacting on their social interactions and state of mind. particular attention should thus be paid to these risks and to the need to protect the dignity and physical and mental integrity of such victims , requiring legal assistance , psychological counselling and shelters to ensure the safety of victims.


### (17) it is necessary to provide for harmonised definitions of offences and penalties regarding certain forms of cyber violence. cyber violence particularly targets and impacts women politicians , journalists and human rights defenders. it can have the effect of silencing women and hindering their societal participation on an equal footing with men. cyber violence also disproportionately affects women and girls in educational settings , such as schools and universities , with detrimental consequences to their further education and to their mental health , which may , in extreme cases , lead to suicide. ### (17) gender-based violence against women have been amplified or facilitated by technology , in particular the technology used in online and digital environments. it is necessary to provide for harmonised definitions of offences and penalties regarding certain forms of cyber violence. cyber violence particularly targets and impacts women politicians , journalists and human rights defenders. it can have the effect of silencing women and hindering their societal participation on an equal footing with men. cyber violence also disproportionately affects women and girls in educational settings , such as schools and universities , with detrimental consequences to their further education and to their mental health , which may , in extreme cases , lead to suicide.


### (17) it is necessary to provide for harmonised definitions of offences and penalties regarding certain forms of cyber violence. cyber violence particularly targets and impacts women politicians , journalists and human rights defenders. it can have the effect of silencing women and hindering their societal participation on an equal footing with men. cyber violence also disproportionately affects women and girls in educational settings , such as schools and universities , with detrimental consequences to their further education and to their mental health , which may , in extreme cases , lead to suicide. ### (17) it is necessary to provide for harmonised definitions of offences and penalties regarding certain forms of cyber violence. cyber violence particularly targets and impacts women active in public life , such as politicians , journalists and human rights defenders. it can have the effect of silencing women and hindering their societal participation on an equal footing with men as well as hampering their careers. cyber violence also disproportionately affects women and girls in educational settings , such as schools and universities , with detrimental consequences to their further education and to their mental health , which may , in extreme cases , lead to mental illness and even suicide.


### (19) especially due to its tendency for easy , swift and broad distribution and perpetration , as well as its intimate nature , the non-consensual making accessible of intimate images or videos and material that depict sexual activities , to a multitude of end-users , by means of information and communication technologies , can be very harmful for the victims. the offence provided for in this directive should cover all types of such material , such as images , photographs and videos , including sexualized images , audio clips and video clips. it should relate to situations where the making accessible of the material to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , occurs without the victim’s consent , irrespective of whether the victim consented to the generation of such material or may have transmitted it to a particular person. the offence should also include the non-consensual production or manipulation , for instance by image editing , of material that makes it appear as though another person is engaged in sexual activities , insofar as the material is subsequently made accessible to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , without the consent of that person. such production or manipulation should include the fabrication of ‘deepfakes’ , where the material appreciably resembles an existing person , objects , places or other entities or events , depicting sexual activities of another person , and would falsely appear to others to be authentic or truthful. in the interest of effectively protecting victims of such conduct , threatening to engage in such conduct should be covered as well. ### (19) especially due to its tendency for easy , swift and broad distribution and perpetration , as well as its intimate nature , the non-consensual making accessible of intimate images or videos and material that depict sexual activities , to a multitude of end-users , by means of information and communication technologies , can be very harmful for the victims. the offence provided for in this directive should cover all types of such material , such as images , photographs and videos , including sexualized images , audio clips and video clips. it should relate to situations where the making accessible of the material to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , occurs without the victim’s consent , irrespective of whether the victim consented to the generation of such material or may have transmitted it to a particular person. the offence should also include the non-consensual production or manipulation , for instance by image editing , including by using artificial intelligence , of material that makes it appear as though another person is engaged in sexual activities , insofar as the material is subsequently made accessible to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , without the consent of that person. such production or manipulation should include the fabrication of ‘deepfakes’ , where the material appreciably resembles an existing person , objects , places or other entities or events , depicting sexual activities of another person , and would falsely appear to others to be authentic or truthful. in the interest of effectively protecting victims of such conduct , threatening to engage in such conduct should be covered as well.


### (22) the increase in internet and social media usage has led to a sharp rise in public incitement to violence and hatred , including based on sex or gender , over the past years. the easy , fast and broad sharing of hate speech through the digital word is reinforced by the online disinhibition effect , as the presumed anonymity on the internet and sense of impunity reduce people’s inhibition to engage in such speech. women are often the target of sexist and misogynous hate online , which can escalate into hate crime offline. this needs to be intercepted at an early stage. the language used in this type of incitement does not always directly refer to the sex or gender of the targeted person(s) , but the biased motivation can be inferred from the overall content or context of the incitement. ### (22) the increase in internet and social media usage has led to a sharp rise in public incitement to violence and hatred , including based on sex or gender , over the past years. the easy , fast and broad sharing of hate speech through the digital word is reinforced by the online disinhibition effect , as the presumed anonymity on the internet and sense of impunity reduce people’s inhibition to engage in such speech. women are often the target of sexist and misogynous hate online , which can escalate into hate crime offline. this needs to be intercepted at an early stage. the language used in this type of incitement does not always directly refer to the sex of the targeted person(s) , but the biased motivation can be inferred from the overall content or context of the incitement.


### (24) victims should be able to report crimes of violence against women or domestic violence easily without being subject to secondary or repeat victimisation. to this end , member states should provide the possibility to submit complaints online or through other information and communication technologies for the reporting of such crimes. victims of cyber violence should be able to upload materials relating to their report , such as screenshots of the alleged violent behaviour. ### (24) victims should be able to report crimes of violence against women or domestic violence easily without being subject to secondary or repeat victimisation. to this end , member states should provide the possibility to submit complaints online or through other information and communication technologies for the reporting of such crimes. victims of cyber violence should be able to upload materials relating to their report , such as screenshots of the alleged violent behaviour. complaint mechanisms should be accessible also for victims without digital skills , victims living in remote or rural areas with a difficult access to digital tools and internet as well as for persons with disabilities.


### (26) in order to tackle underreporting in the cases when the victim is a child , safe and child-friendly reporting procedures should be established. this can include questioning by competent authorities in simple and accessible language. ### (26) in order to tackle underreporting in the cases when the victim is a child , safe and child-friendly reporting procedures should be established. this can include questioning by competent authorities in simple and accessible language. member states should ensure sufficient training of professionals coming in contact with child victims or potential child victims.


### (26) in order to tackle underreporting in the cases when the victim is a child , safe and child-friendly reporting procedures should be established. this can include questioning by competent authorities in simple and accessible language. ### (26) in order to tackle underreporting in the cases when the victim is a child , safe and child-friendly reporting procedures should be established. this can include questioning by competent authorities in simple and accessible language and in a carefully selected environment.


### (26) in order to tackle underreporting in the cases when the victim is a child , safe and child-friendly reporting procedures should be established. this can include questioning by competent authorities in simple and accessible language. ### (26) in order to tackle underreporting in the cases when the victim is a child , safe and child-friendly reporting procedures should be established. this can include questioning by competent authorities in simple and accessible language. participation in court proceedings should take place in a comfortable environment so as not to cause additional trauma or stress for the child and to minimise the psychological and emotional impact of such circumstances , and be appropriate for the age , maturity and language skills of the child in terms of language and content.


### (26) in order to tackle underreporting in the cases when the victim is a child , safe and child-friendly reporting procedures should be established. this can include questioning by competent authorities in simple and accessible language. ### (26) in order to tackle underreporting in the cases when the victim is a child , safe and child-friendly reporting procedures should be established based on the principle that the interests of the child are of paramount importance. this can include questioning by competent authorities in simple and accessible language.


### (27) delays in processing complaints of violence against women and domestic violence can bear particular risks to victims thereof , given that they might still be in immediate danger given that offenders might often be close family members or spouses. therefore , the competent authorities should have the sufficient expertise and effective investigative tools to investigate and prosecute such crimes. ### (27) delays in processing complaints of violence against women and domestic violence can bear particular risks to victims thereof , given that they might still be in immediate danger given that offenders might often be close family members or spouses. therefore , the competent authorities should have the sufficient expertise and effective investigative tools to investigate and prosecute such crimes. member states should make sufficient resources available to ensure that proceedings involving children are handled with utmost compliance with the standards of child-friendly justice , with appropriate respect for child’s emotional and physical integrity , and without undue delay. member states should ensure that child and family courts function as an essential service , continuing to hold emergency hearings and executing court orders for the care and protection of children who are at an immediate risk of neglect or abuse.


### (27) delays in processing complaints of violence against women and domestic violence can bear particular risks to victims thereof , given that they might still be in immediate danger given that offenders might often be close family members or spouses. therefore , the competent authorities should have the sufficient expertise and effective investigative tools to investigate and prosecute such crimes. ### (27) delays in processing complaints of violence against women and domestic violence can bear particular risks to victims thereof , given that they might still be in immediate danger given that offenders might often be close family members , spouses or intimate partners. therefore , the competent authorities should have the sufficient expertise and effective investigative tools to investigate and prosecute such crimes.


### (29) when assessing the victim’s protection and support needs , the primary concern should lie in safeguarding the victim’s safety and providing tailored support , taking into account , among other matters , the individual circumstances of the victim. such circumstances requiring special attention could include the victim’s pregnancy or the victim’s dependence on or relationship to the offender. ### (29) when assessing the victim’s protection and support needs , the primary concern should lie in safeguarding the victim’s safety and providing tailored support immediately , taking into account , among other matters , the individual circumstances of the victim. such circumstances requiring extra special attention could include the victim’s pregnancy , the fact that the victim lives with the abuser or the victim’s dependence on or relationship to the offender.


### (33) member states should take the necessary measures to ensure the availability of emergency barring , restraining and protection orders to ensure effective protection of victims and their dependants. ### (33) member states should take the necessary measures to ensure the availability of emergency barring , restraining and protection orders to ensure effective protection of victims and their dependants. member states should ensure that the length of the protection orders is sufficient taking into account time required to access administrative or judicial procedures victim can take in order to report a criminal offence or seek a long-term protection.


### (39) certain offences covered by this directive involve the increased risk of repeated , prolonged or even continuous victimisation. that risk occurs especially in relation to offences involving the making accessible to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , of material , resulting from certain offences of cyber violence , considering the ease and speed with which such material can be distributed on a large scale and the difficulties that often exist when it comes to removing such material. that risk typically remains even after a conviction. therefore , in order to effectively safeguard the rights of the victims of those offences , member states should be required to take suitable measures aimed at the removal of the material in question. considering that removal at the source may not always be feasible , for instance because of legal or practical difficulties relating to the execution or enforcement of an order to remove , member states should also be allowed to provide for measures to disable access to such material. ### (39) certain offences covered by this directive involve the increased risk of repeated , prolonged or even continuous victimisation. that risk occurs especially in relation to offences involving the making accessible to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , of material , resulting from certain offences of cyber violence , considering the ease and speed with which such material can be distributed on a large scale and the difficulties that often exist when it comes to removing such material. that risk typically remains even after a conviction. therefore , in order to effectively safeguard the rights of the victims of those offences , member states should be required to take suitable measures aimed at the prompt removal of the material in question. considering that removal at the source may not always be feasible , for instance because of legal or practical difficulties relating to the execution or enforcement of an order to remove , member states should also be allowed to provide for measures to disable access to such material.


### (39) certain offences covered by this directive involve the increased risk of repeated , prolonged or even continuous victimisation. that risk occurs especially in relation to offences involving the making accessible to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , of material , resulting from certain offences of cyber violence , considering the ease and speed with which such material can be distributed on a large scale and the difficulties that often exist when it comes to removing such material. that risk typically remains even after a conviction. therefore , in order to effectively safeguard the rights of the victims of those offences , member states should be required to take suitable measures aimed at the removal of the material in question. considering that removal at the source may not always be feasible , for instance because of legal or practical difficulties relating to the execution or enforcement of an order to remove , member states should also be allowed to provide for measures to disable access to such material. ### (39) certain offences covered by this directive involve the increased risk of repeated , prolonged or even continuous victimisation. that risk occurs especially in relation to offences involving the making accessible to one or more end-users , through information and communication technologies , of material , resulting from certain offences of cyber violence , considering the ease and speed with which such material can be distributed on a large scale and the difficulties that often exist when it comes to removing such material. that risk typically remains even after a conviction. therefore , in order to effectively safeguard the rights of the victims of those offences , member states should be required to take suitable measures aimed at the removal of the material in question. considering that removal at the source may not always be feasible , for instance because of legal or practical difficulties relating to the execution or enforcement of an order to remove , member states should also be allowed to provide for measures to disable access to such material.


### (45) assistance and support to victims of violence against women and domestic violence should be provided before , during and for an appropriate period after the criminal proceedings have ended , for example where medical treatment is still needed to address the severe physical or psychological consequences of the violence , or if the victim’s safety is at risk in particular due to the statements made by the victim in those proceedings. ### (45) assistance and support to victims of violence against women and domestic violence should be provided from the moment it is reported , during the criminal proceedings and for an appropriate period after they have ended , for example where medical treatment is still needed to address the severe physical or psychological consequences of the violence , or if the victim’s safety is at risk in particular due to the statements made by the victim in those proceedings.


### (45) assistance and support to victims of violence against women and domestic violence should be provided before , during and for an appropriate period after the criminal proceedings have ended , for example where medical treatment is still needed to address the severe physical or psychological consequences of the violence , or if the victim’s safety is at risk in particular due to the statements made by the victim in those proceedings. ### (45) assistance and support to victims of violence against women and domestic violence should be provided immediately after the individual assessment and for an appropriate period after the criminal proceedings have ended , if such proceedings were initiated , for example where medical treatment is still needed to address the severe physical or psychological consequences of the violence , or if the victim’s safety is at risk in particular due to the statements made by the victim in those proceedings.


### (46) specialised support services should provide support to victims of all forms of violence against women and domestic violence , including sexual violence , female genital mutilation , forced marriage , forced abortion and sterilisation , sexual harassment and of various forms of cyber violence. ### (46) specialised support services should provide support to victims of all forms of violence against women and domestic violence , including sexual violence , female genital mutilation , forced marriage , forced abortion and sterilisation , surrogacy , sexual harassment and of various forms of cyber violence.


### (46) specialised support services should provide support to victims of all forms of violence against women and domestic violence , including sexual violence , female genital mutilation , forced marriage , forced abortion and sterilisation , sexual harassment and of various forms of cyber violence. ### (46) specialised support services should provide support to victims of all forms of violence against women and domestic violence , including sexual violence , female genital mutilation , forced marriage , forced abortion and sterilisation , sexual harassment and of various forms of cyber violence. such specialised support services shall be distributed in an adequate manner in sufficient volume in each member state. they shall be organised in the form of one-stop shops , in which it is possible , in a single location , to carry out in particular the urgent placing of a victim in a shelter , putting a care pathway in place , pre-drafting a protection order , allocating protection tools , carrying out a change of legal address , opening a bank account , contacting social services or assisting a victim in obtaining employment. if these are not in a single location , the specialised support services shall be coordinated through a central contact point or single online access to these services. the data and measures taken shall be stored on the platform set up by each member state pursuant to article 35a of this directive.


### (46) specialised support services should provide support to victims of all forms of violence against women and domestic violence , including sexual violence , female genital mutilation , forced marriage , forced abortion and sterilisation , sexual harassment and of various forms of cyber violence. ### (46) specialised support services should provide support to victims of all forms of violence against women and domestic violence , including sexual violence , female genital mutilation , intersex genital mutilation , forced marriage , forced abortion and sterilisation , sexual harassment and of various forms of cyber violence.


### (47) specialist support should offer victims support tailored to their specific needs , and irrespective of any official complaint. such services could be provided in addition to , or as an integrated part of , general victim support services , which may call on existing entities providing specialist support. specialist support may be provided by national authorities , victims’ support organisations , or other non-governmental organisations. they should be granted sufficient human and financial resources and , where the services are provided by non-governmental organisations , member states should ensure that they receive appropriate funds. ### (47) specialist support should offer victims support tailored to their specific needs , and irrespective of any official complaint. such services could be provided in addition to , or as an integrated part of , general victim support services , which may call on existing entities providing specialist support. specialist support may be provided by national authorities , victims’ support organisations , or other non-governmental or charitable and church-based organisations. they should be granted sufficient human and financial resources and , where the services are provided by non-governmental or charitable and church-based organisations , member states should ensure that they receive appropriate funds.


### (47) specialist support should offer victims support tailored to their specific needs , and irrespective of any official complaint. such services could be provided in addition to , or as an integrated part of , general victim support services , which may call on existing entities providing specialist support. specialist support may be provided by national authorities , victims’ support organisations , or other non-governmental organisations. they should be granted sufficient human and financial resources and , where the services are provided by non-governmental organisations , member states should ensure that they receive appropriate funds. ### (47) specialist support should offer victims support tailored to their specific needs , and irrespective of any official complaint. such services could be provided in addition to , or as an integrated part of , general victim support services , which may call on existing entities providing specialist support. specialist support may be provided by national authorities , victims’ support organisations , or other non-governmental organisations. they should be granted sufficient human and financial resources and , where the services are provided by non-governmental organisations , member states should be responsible of ensuring that they receive appropriate funds.


### (48) victims of domestic violence and violence against women typically have multiple protection and support needs. in order to address these effectively , member states should provide such services at the same premises , or have such services coordinated through a central contact point. to ensure also victims in remote areas or unable to physically reach such centres are reached , member states should provide for online access to such services. this should entail setting up a single and updated website where all relevant information on and access to available support and protection services is provided (one-stop online access). the website should follow accessibility requirements for persons with disabilities. ### (48) victims of domestic violence and violence against women typically have multiple protection and support needs. in order to address these effectively , member states should provide such services at the same premises , or , alternatively , have such services coordinated through a central contact point. to ensure also all victims , including those in remote areas or unable to physically reach such centres are reached , member states should provide for online remote access to such services by setting up an app , a website and a helpline that is available 24/7.


### (49) specialist support services , including shelters and rape crisis centres , should be considered essential during crises and states of emergency , including during health crises. these services should continue to be offered in these situations , where instances of domestic violence and violence against women tend to surge. ### (49) specialist support services , including shelters and rape crisis centres , are to be considered essential during crises and states of emergency , including during health crises. the functionality of these services should be increased in these situations , where instances of domestic violence and violence against women tend to surge.


### (49) specialist support services , including shelters and rape crisis centres , should be considered essential during crises and states of emergency , including during health crises. these services should continue to be offered in these situations , where instances of domestic violence and violence against women tend to surge. ### (49) specialist support services , including shelters , homes for mothers and small children and for pregnant women , and rape crisis centres , should be considered essential during crises and states of emergency , including during health crises. these services should continue to be offered in these situations , where instances of domestic violence and violence against women tend to surge. member states and local authorities should ensure that there is an appropriate number per capita of these crisis intervention centres , providing 24-hour support for victims of violence.


### (49) specialist support services , including shelters and rape crisis centres , should be considered essential during crises and states of emergency , including during health crises. these services should continue to be offered in these situations , where instances of domestic violence and violence against women tend to surge. ### (49) specialist support services , including shelters and rape crisis centres , should be considered essential during crises and states of emergency , including during health crises. these services should continue to be offered in these situations , where instances of domestic violence and violence against women tend to surge , and they should be fully accessible for girls and women with disabilities.


### (50) the traumatic nature of sexual violence , including rape , requires a particularly sensitive response by trained and specialised staff. victims of this type of violence need immediate medical care and trauma support combined with immediate forensic examinations to collect the evidence needed for prosecution. rape crisis centres or sexual violence referral centres should be available in sufficient numbers and adequately spread over the territory of each member state. similarly , victims of female genital mutilation , who are often girls , typically are in need of targeted support. therefore , member states should ensure they provide dedicated support tailored to these victims. ### (50) the traumatic nature of sexual violence , including rape , requires a particularly sensitive response by trained and specialised staff. victims of this type of violence need immediate medical care , services operated by gynaecologists and obstetricians where needed , and trauma support combined with immediate forensic examinations to collect the evidence needed for prosecution. rape crisis centres or sexual violence referral centres should be available in sufficient numbers and adequately spread over the territory of each member state. similarly , victims of female genital mutilation , who are often girls , typically are in need of targeted support. therefore , member states should ensure they provide dedicated support tailored to these victims.


### (50) the traumatic nature of sexual violence , including rape , requires a particularly sensitive response by trained and specialised staff. victims of this type of violence need immediate medical care and trauma support combined with immediate forensic examinations to collect the evidence needed for prosecution. rape crisis centres or sexual violence referral centres should be available in sufficient numbers and adequately spread over the territory of each member state. similarly , victims of female genital mutilation , who are often girls , typically are in need of targeted support. therefore , member states should ensure they provide dedicated support tailored to these victims. ### (50) the traumatic nature of sexual violence , including rape , requires a particularly sensitive response by trained and specialised staff. victims of this type of violence need immediate medical care and trauma support combined with immediate forensic examinations to collect the evidence needed for prosecution. rape crisis centres or sexual violence referral centres should be available on a 24-hour basis in sufficient numbers and adequately spread over the territory of each member state , and should be ready to provide short-term , medium-term and long-term assistance. similarly , victims of female genital mutilation , who are often girls , typically are in need of targeted support. therefore , member states should ensure they provide dedicated support tailored to these victims.


### (50) the traumatic nature of sexual violence , including rape , requires a particularly sensitive response by trained and specialised staff. victims of this type of violence need immediate medical care and trauma support combined with immediate forensic examinations to collect the evidence needed for prosecution. rape crisis centres or sexual violence referral centres should be available in sufficient numbers and adequately spread over the territory of each member state. similarly , victims of female genital mutilation , who are often girls , typically are in need of targeted support. therefore , member states should ensure they provide dedicated support tailored to these victims. ### (50) the traumatic nature of sexual violence , including rape , requires a particularly sensitive response by trained and specialised staff. victims of this type of violence need immediate medical care and trauma support combined with immediate forensic examinations to collect the evidence needed for prosecution. rape crisis centres or sexual violence referral centres should be available in sufficient numbers and adequately spread over the territory of each member state. similarly , victims of female genital mutilation , who are often girls , and of intersex genital mutilation , typically are in need of targeted support. therefore , member states should ensure they provide dedicated support tailored to these victims.


### (51) harassment at work is considered as discrimination on grounds of sex by directives 2004/113/ec , 2006/54/ec and 2010/41/eu. given that sexual harassment at work has significant negative consequences both for the victims and the employers , advice on adequately addressing such instances at the workplace , on legal remedies available to the employer to remove the offender from the workplace and providing the possibility of early conciliation , if the victim so wishes , should be provided by external counselling services to both victims and employers. ### (51) harassment at work is considered as discrimination on grounds of sex by directives 2004/113/ec , 2006/54/ec and 2010/41/eu. given that sexual harassment at work has significant negative consequences both for the victims and for the employers and businesses , advice on adequately addressing such instances at the workplace , on legal remedies available to the employer to remove the offender from the workplace and providing the possibility of early conciliation , if the victim so wishes , should be provided by external counselling services to both victims and employers.


### (51) harassment at work is considered as discrimination on grounds of sex by directives 2004/113/ec , 2006/54/ec and 2010/41/eu. given that sexual harassment at work has significant negative consequences both for the victims and the employers , advice on adequately addressing such instances at the workplace , on legal remedies available to the employer to remove the offender from the workplace and providing the possibility of early conciliation , if the victim so wishes , should be provided by external counselling services to both victims and employers. ### (51) harassment at work is considered as discrimination on grounds of sex by directives 2004/113/ec , 2006/54/ec and 2010/41/eu. given that sexual harassment at work is a form a discrimination that has significant negative consequences both for the victims and the employers , advice on adequately addressing such instances at the workplace , on legal remedies available to the employer to remove the offender from the workplace and providing the possibility of early conciliation , if the victim so wishes , should be provided by external specialised and trained services to both victims and employers.


### (52) member states should ensure that national helplines are operated under the eu-harmonised number [116016] and this number is widely advertised as a public number , free of charge and available round-the-clock. the support provided should include crisis counselling and should be able to refer to face-to-face services , such as shelters , counselling centres or the police. ### deleted


### (52) member states should ensure that national helplines are operated under the eu-harmonised number [116016] and this number is widely advertised as a public number , free of charge and available round-the-clock. the support provided should include crisis counselling and should be able to refer to face-to-face services , such as shelters , counselling centres or the police. ### (52) member states should ensure that national helplines are operated under the eu-harmonised number [116016] or any other already existing number , and this number is widely advertised as a public number , free of charge and available round-the-clock. the support provided should include crisis counselling and should be able to refer to face-to-face services , such as shelters , counselling centres or the police. this specialist support helpline should be operated separately from other helpline(s) for victims of crime. victims of violence against women and domestic violence , if calling a general victims helpline should be redirected to the specialist helpline operated under the eu-harmonised number for targeted counselling.


### (52) member states should ensure that national helplines are operated under the eu-harmonised number [116016] and this number is widely advertised as a public number , free of charge and available round-the-clock. the support provided should include crisis counselling and should be able to refer to face-to-face services , such as shelters , counselling centres or the police. ### (52) member states shall ensure that national helplines are operated under the eu-harmonised number [116016] and this number is widely advertised as a public number , free of charge and available round-the-clock. the support provided should include crisis counselling and should be able to refer to face-to-face services , such as shelters , counselling centres or the police. member states shall establish a national helpline in the event that no such helpline exists , and provide the corresponding funding.


### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. ### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. member states should guarantee support for women and their children who are victims of violence by means of community , educational and financial support , in order to ensure these women have the necessary means to care for their children. victims of violence should have access to psychological support and counselling at every stage of their legal procedures.


### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. ### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. domestic violence often affects the victim´s performance at work due to stress and fear , and the perpetrators often prevent their partners or ex-partners from accessing their work place. in addition , victims will frequently need additional time away from work to attend medical appointments , legal proceedings or to make social arrangements such as searching for new accommodation. measures shall therefore be implemented at national level to ensure that employers are prevented from discriminating or in any way disadvantaging victim workers in the immediate aftermath of the violence and due to the impact of factors that relate to the violence. for victims who seek safe haven in shelters to stay safe , the workplace can be a dangerous place , since perpetrators know where to find them. victims shall therefore have the right to paid leave for appropriate duration.


### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. ### (53) shelters and other appropriate interim accommodations play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , they must be solely for women who are victims of domestic and sexual violence. shelters and other appropriate interim accommodations must be geographically distributed in an appropriate manner , with one family place per 10 000 of population , as recommended by the final activity report of the council of europe’s task force to combat violence against women , including domestic violence (eg-tfv (2008)6). shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , professional and financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life.


### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. ### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. member states should ensure the availability of sufficient dedicated domestic violence shelters and different services within , with an adequate geographical distribution. a variety of different models should be made available , including single-sex shelters , thereby ensuring maximum flexibility for victims. shelters should always be available free of charge for the victim and they should ensure the active and continuous , physical presence of trained and specialised personnel to engage with and support the victims.


### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. ### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. member states should ensure the availability of sufficient dedicated domestic violence shelters , with an adequate geographical distribution. a variety of different models should be made available , including single-gender shelters , thereby ensuring maximum flexibility for victims. shelters should always be available free of charge for the victim.


### (53) shelters play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. ### (53) shelters , including homes for mothers and small children and for pregnant women , play a vital role in protecting victims from acts of violence. beyond providing a safe place to stay , shelters should provide the necessary support concerning interlocking problems related to victims’ health , financial situation and the well-being of their children , ultimately preparing victims for an autonomous life. the number of such institutions should be appropriate given the population of the relevant area.


### (56) victims with specific needs and groups at risk of violence against women or domestic violence , such as women with disabilities , women with dependant residence status or permit , undocumented migrant women , women applicants for international protection , women fleeing armed conflict , women affected by homelessness , with a minority racial or ethnic background , living in rural areas , women sex workers , detainees , or older women , should receive specific protection and support. ### (56) victims with specific needs and groups at risk of violence against women or domestic violence , such as women with disabilities , women with dependant residence status or permit , undocumented migrant women , women applicants for international protection , women fleeing armed conflict , women affected by homelessness , with a minority racial , religious or ethnic background , living in rural areas , women sex workers , detainees , or older women , should receive specific protection and support.


### (56) victims with specific needs and groups at risk of violence against women or domestic violence , such as women with disabilities , women with dependant residence status or permit , undocumented migrant women , women applicants for international protection , women fleeing armed conflict , women affected by homelessness , with a minority racial or ethnic background , living in rural areas , women sex workers , detainees , or older women , should receive specific protection and support. ### (56) victims with specific needs and groups at risk of violence against women or domestic violence , such as women with disabilities , women with dependant residence status or permit , undocumented migrant women , women applicants for international protection , women fleeing armed conflict , women affected by homelessness , with a minority racial or ethnic background , living in rural areas , women sex workers , detainees , older women , children , victims of so-called "honour crimes" or lbtiq women and other lgbtiq people subject to gender-based violence , should receive specific protection and support.


### (56) victims with specific needs and groups at risk of violence against women or domestic violence , such as women with disabilities , women with dependant residence status or permit , undocumented migrant women , women applicants for international protection , women fleeing armed conflict , women affected by homelessness , with a minority racial or ethnic background , living in rural areas , women sex workers , detainees , or older women , should receive specific protection and support. ### (56) victims with specific needs and groups at risk of violence against women or domestic violence , such as women with disabilities , women with dependant residence status or permit , undocumented migrant women , women applicants for international protection , women fleeing armed conflict , women affected by homelessness , with a minority racial or ethnic background , living in rural areas , women in the uniformed services , women sex workers , detainees , or older women , should receive specific protection and support.