### (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’). gender-based violence and domestic violence endanger these very principles , undermining women and girls’ rights to equality in all areas of life.


### (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) gender-based violence 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.


### (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 gender-based violence 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 gender-based violence. 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 partners.


### (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 partners , whether or not the offender shares or has shared the same residence with the victim .


### (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 gender-based violence 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 without discrimination on account of any ground. therefore , the term ‘victim’ should refer to all persons , regardless of their sex or gender.


### (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 gender-based violence 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.


### (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) gender-based is a persisting manifestation of structural discrimination against women , in all their diversity , 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’.


### (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 gender-based violence 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 gender-based violence 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 gender-based violence 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 , the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities and , where relevant , the council of europe convention on preventing and combating gender-based violence and domestic violence (‘istanbul convention’) ,40the international labour organization’s convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work , signed on 21 june 2019 in geneva , the international labour organization's discrimination (employment and occupation) convention , 1958 (no 111) and the international labour organization's domestic workers' convention , 2012 (no 189).


### (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 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. it should be complemented by a full ratification and implementation by member states of the istanbul convention and ilo convention no 190 on violence and harassment in the world of work


### (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) gender-based 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 , sexual orientation , gender identity , gender expression and sex characteristics. member states should therefore pay due regard to victims affected by such intersectional discrimination and violence , 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 and domestic violence. for example , acts of gender-based violence which seek to punish victims for their sexual orientation , gender expression , gender identity or sex characteristics such as so-called corrective rape , should be given particular attention.


### (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 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 , social or economic status , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age , sexual orientation gender identity , gender expression and sex characteristics . 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.


### (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 gender-based violence 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.


### (13) rape is one of the most serious offences breaching a person’s sexual integrity and is a crime that disproportionately affects women. it entails a power imbalance between the offender and the victim , which allows the offender to sexually exploit the victim for purposes such as personal gratification , asserting domination , gaining social recognition , advancement or possibly financial gain. many member states still require the use of force , threats or coercion for the crime of rape. other member states solely rely on the condition that the victim has not consented to the sexual act. only the latter approach achieves the full protection of the sexual integrity of victims. therefore , it is necessary to ensure equal protection throughout the union by providing the constitutive elements of the crime of rape of women. . ### (13) rape is one of the most serious offences breaching a person’s sexual integrity and is a crime that disproportionately affects women. it entails a power imbalance between the offender and the victim , which allows the offender to sexually exploit the victim for purposes such as personal gratification , asserting domination , gaining social recognition , advancement or possibly financial gain or punishment for the victim's sexual orientation , gender identity , gender expression or sex characteristics (so-called "corrective rape"). many member states still require the use of force , threats or coercion for the crime of rape. other member states solely rely on the condition that the victim has not consented to the sexual act. only the latter approach achieves the full protection of the sexual integrity of victims. therefore , it is necessary to ensure equal protection throughout the union by providing the constitutive elements of the crime of rape of women. .


### (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 politicians , journalists and human rights defenders as well as persons who are part of marginalised communities . 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. the increased use of ict at work has lead to increased cyber violence against women requiring particular attention to preventative and protective measures in the context of work. women and girls exposed to discrimination and violence on the basis of a combination of their sex or gender and other grounds are disproportionately affected by cyber violence , including cyber harassment or cyber incitement to violence or hatred.


### (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 other 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 other 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 other 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.


### (21) minimum rules concerning the offence of cyber harassment should be laid down to counter initiating an attack with third parties or participating in such an attack directed at another person , by making threatening or insulting material accessible to a multitude of end-users. such broad attacks , including coordinated online mob attacks , may morph into offline assault or cause significant psychological injury and in extreme cases lead to suicide of the victim. they often target prominent (female) politicians , journalists or otherwise well-known persons , but they can also occur in different contexts , for instance on campuses or in schools. such online violence should be addressed especially where the attacks occur on a wide-scale , for example in the form of pile-on harassment by a significant amount of people. ### (21) minimum rules concerning the offence of cyber harassment should be laid down to counter initiating an attack with third parties or participating in such an attack directed at another person , by making threatening or insulting material accessible to other end-users. such broad attacks , including coordinated online mob attacks , may morph into offline assault or cause significant psychological injury and in extreme cases lead to suicide of the victim. they often target prominent (female) politicians , journalists or otherwise well-known persons , but they can also occur in different contexts , for instance on campuses or in schools. such online violence should be addressed especially where the attacks occur on a wide-scale , for example in the form of pile-on harassment by a significant amount of people.


### (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. oftentimes , perpetrators of such incitement online are public figures who , due to a presumed impunity , have the effect of legitimising and emboldening acts of violence offline. women are often the target of sexist and misogynous hate online , which can escalate into hate crime offline. children and youth can also be the target of violent cyber violence owing to personal characteristics such as disability , racial or ethnic origin , sexual orientation , gender identity , gender expression , sex characteristics or other grounds which , if left unaddressed , may cause social exclusion , anxiety , inducement to inflict self-harm and , in extreme situations , suicide ideation , suicide attempts or actual suicide. 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.


### (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 gender-based violence 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. ### (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 in-person as well as 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.


### (25) in the case of domestic violence and violence against women , especially when committed by close family members or intimate partners , victims may be under such duress by the offender that they fear to reach out to the competent authorities , even if their lives are in danger. therefore , member states should ensure their confidentiality rules do not constitute an obstacle for relevant professionals , such as healthcare professionals , to report to the competent authorities , where they have reasonable grounds to believe that the life of the victim is at an imminent risk of serious physical harm. similarly , instances of domestic violence or violence against women affecting children are often only intercepted by third parties noticing irregular behaviour or physical harm to the child. children need to be effectively protected from such forms of violence and adequate measures promptly taken. therefore , relevant professionals coming in contact with child victims or potential child victims , including healthcare or education professionals , should equally not be constrained by confidentiality where they have reasonable grounds to believe that serious acts of violence under this directive have been committed against the child or further serious acts are to be expected. where professionals report such instances of violence , member states should ensure that they are not held liable for breach of confidentiality. ### (25) in the case of domestic violence and gender-based violence , especially when committed by close family members or intimate partners , victims may be under such duress by the offender that they fear to reach out to the competent authorities , even if their lives are in danger. therefore , member states should ensure their confidentiality rules do not constitute an obstacle for relevant professionals , such as healthcare professionals , to report to the competent authorities , where they have reasonable grounds to believe that the life of the victim is at an imminent risk of serious physical harm. similarly , instances of domestic violence or gender-based violence affecting children are often only intercepted by third parties noticing irregular behaviour or physical harm to the child. children need to be effectively protected from such forms of violence and adequate measures promptly taken. therefore , relevant professionals coming in contact with child victims or potential child victims , including healthcare or education professionals , should equally not be constrained by confidentiality where they have reasonable grounds to believe that serious acts of violence under this directive have been committed against the child or further serious acts are to be expected. where professionals report such instances of violence , member states should ensure that they are not held liable for breach of confidentiality.


### (25) in the case of domestic violence and violence against women , especially when committed by close family members or intimate partners , victims may be under such duress by the offender that they fear to reach out to the competent authorities , even if their lives are in danger. therefore , member states should ensure their confidentiality rules do not constitute an obstacle for relevant professionals , such as healthcare professionals , to report to the competent authorities , where they have reasonable grounds to believe that the life of the victim is at an imminent risk of serious physical harm. similarly , instances of domestic violence or violence against women affecting children are often only intercepted by third parties noticing irregular behaviour or physical harm to the child. children need to be effectively protected from such forms of violence and adequate measures promptly taken. therefore , relevant professionals coming in contact with child victims or potential child victims , including healthcare or education professionals , should equally not be constrained by confidentiality where they have reasonable grounds to believe that serious acts of violence under this directive have been committed against the child or further serious acts are to be expected. where professionals report such instances of violence , member states should ensure that they are not held liable for breach of confidentiality. ### (25) in the case of domestic violence and violence against women , especially when committed by close family members or intimate partners , victims may be under such duress by the offender that they fear to reach out to the competent authorities , even if their lives are in danger. therefore , member states should ensure their confidentiality rules do not constitute an obstacle for relevant professionals , such as healthcare professionals , to report to the competent authorities , where they have reasonable grounds to believe that the life of the victim is at an imminent risk of serious physical harm. similarly , instances of domestic violence or violence against women affecting children are often only intercepted by third parties noticing irregular behaviour or physical harm to the child. children need to be effectively protected from such forms of violence and adequate measures promptly taken. therefore , relevant professionals coming in contact with child victims or potential child victims , including healthcare or education professionals , should equally not be constrained by confidentiality where they have reasonable grounds to believe that serious acts of violence under this directive have been committed against the child or further serious acts are to be expected. where professionals report such instances of violence , member states shall ensure that a gender-responsive and child-responsive risk assessment and risk management is conducted , and that tailored safety , protection and support measures are immediately adopted. member states should ensure that reporting professionals are not held liable for breach of confidentiality while ensuring that the victim’s privacy is safeguarded and that they are protected against possible retaliation.


### (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 gender-based violence 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. delays in dealing with complaints put victims at risk of physical , sexual , psychological or economic harm or suffering. victims should have the right to be free from undue consequences , such as termination of contract , when taking leave as a consequence of gender-based violence and sexual harassment.


### (28) victims of domestic violence and violence against women are typically in need of immediate protection or specific support , for example in the case of intimate partner violence , where the rate of recidivism tends to be high. therefore , an individual assessment to identify the victim’s protection needs should be conducted upon the very first contact of competent authorities with the victim or as soon as suspicion arises that the person is a victim of violence against women or domestic violence. this can be done before a victim has formally reported an offence or proactively if a third party reports the offence. ### (28) victims of domestic violence and gender-based violence are typically in need of immediate protection or specific support , for example in the case of intimate partner violence , where the rate of recidivism tends to be high. therefore , an individual assessment to identify the victim’s protection needs should be conducted upon the very first contact of competent authorities with the victim or as soon as suspicion arises that the person is a victim of gender-based violence or domestic violence. this can be done before a victim has formally reported an offence or proactively if a third party reports the offence.


### (28) victims of domestic violence and violence against women are typically in need of immediate protection or specific support , for example in the case of intimate partner violence , where the rate of recidivism tends to be high. therefore , an individual assessment to identify the victim’s protection needs should be conducted upon the very first contact of competent authorities with the victim or as soon as suspicion arises that the person is a victim of violence against women or domestic violence. this can be done before a victim has formally reported an offence or proactively if a third party reports the offence. ### (28) victims of domestic violence and violence against women are typically in need of immediate protection or specific support , for example in the case of intimate partner violence , where the rate of recidivism tends to be high. therefore , an individual assessment to identify the victim’s protection needs should be conducted upon the very first contact of competent authorities with the victim or as soon as suspicion arises that the person is a victim of violence against women or domestic violence. this can be done before a victim has formally reported an offence or proactively if a third party reports the offence. member states shall ensure that the corresponding competent authority has sufficient funding , staff and other resources to conduct individual assessments , including by cooperating with other agencies and support services (health , social services , etc.). when the victim of violence is a child , protection and support should also extend to non-violent parents or guardians.


### (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 , taking into account , among other matters , the individual circumstances of the victim. such circumstances requiring special attention could include the victim’s pregnancy , disabilities , or the victim’s economic , familial or other dependence on or relationship to the offender.


### (38) given the complexities and gravity of offences of violence against women and domestic violence and specific support needs of victims , member states should ensure additional support and prevention of such offences is provided by designated bodies. given their expertise in matters of discrimination on grounds of sex , national equality bodies , set up in accordance with directives 2004/113/ec42 , 2006/54/ec43 and 2010/41/eu44 of the european parliament and of the council , are well placed to fulfil these tasks. such bodies should in addition have legal standing to act on behalf or in support of victims of all forms of violence against women or domestic violence in judicial proceedings , including for the application for compensation and removal of online illegal content , with the victims’ approval. this should include the possibility of acting on behalf or in support of several victims together. to enable these bodies to effectively carry out their tasks , member states should ensure that they are provided with sufficient human and financial resources. ### (38) given the complexities and gravity of offences of gender-based violence and domestic violence and specific support needs of victims , member states should ensure additional support and prevention of such offences is provided by designated bodies. given their expertise in matters of discrimination on grounds of sex , national equality bodies , set up in accordance with directives 2004/113/ec42 , 2006/54/ec43 and 2010/41/eu44 of the european parliament and of the council , are well placed to fulfil these tasks. such bodies should in addition have legal standing to act on behalf or in support of victims of all forms of gender-based violence or domestic violence in judicial proceedings , including for the application for compensation and removal of online illegal content , with the victims’ approval. this should include the possibility of acting on behalf or in support of several victims together. to enable these bodies to effectively carry out their tasks , member states should ensure that they are provided with sufficient human and financial resources.


### (38) given the complexities and gravity of offences of violence against women and domestic violence and specific support needs of victims , member states should ensure additional support and prevention of such offences is provided by designated bodies. given their expertise in matters of discrimination on grounds of sex , national equality bodies , set up in accordance with directives 2004/113/ec42 , 2006/54/ec43 and 2010/41/eu44 of the european parliament and of the council , are well placed to fulfil these tasks. such bodies should in addition have legal standing to act on behalf or in support of victims of all forms of violence against women or domestic violence in judicial proceedings , including for the application for compensation and removal of online illegal content , with the victims’ approval. this should include the possibility of acting on behalf or in support of several victims together. to enable these bodies to effectively carry out their tasks , member states should ensure that they are provided with sufficient human and financial resources. ### (38) given the complexities and gravity of offences of gender-based violence and specific support needs of victims , member states should ensure additional support and prevention of such offences is provided by designated bodies. given their expertise in matters of discrimination on grounds of sex , national equality bodies , set up in accordance with directives 2004/113/ec42 , 2006/54/ec43 and 2010/41/eu44 of the european parliament and of the council , are well placed to fulfil these tasks. such bodies should in addition have legal standing to act on behalf or in support of victims of all forms of gender-based violence in judicial proceedings , including for the application for compensation and removal of online illegal content , and securing of evidence , with the victims’ approval. this should include the possibility of acting on behalf or in support of several victims together. to enable these bodies to effectively carry out their tasks , member states should ensure the independence of their mandates and that they are provided with sufficient human and financial resources.


### (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 other 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 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 other end-users , through information and communication technologies , of material , resulting from offences of cyber violence covered in this directive , 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. member states should also be allowed to provide for measures to disable access to such material.


### (44) in order to avoid secondary victimisation , victims should be able to obtain compensation in the course of criminal proceedings. compensation from the offender should be full and should not be restricted by a fixed upper limit. it should cover all harm and trauma experienced by victims and costs incurred to manage the damages , including among other things therapy costs , impact on the victim’s employment situation , loss of earnings , psychological damages , and moral prejudice due to the violation of dignity. the amount of compensation should reflect that victims of domestic violence may have to uproot their lives in order to seek safety , entailing a possible change of employment or finding new schools for children or even creating a new identity. ### (44) in order to avoid secondary victimisation , victims should be able to obtain compensation in the course of criminal proceedings. compensation from the offender should be full and should not be restricted by a fixed upper limit. it should cover all harm and trauma experienced by victims and costs incurred to manage the damages , including among other things therapy costs , impact on the victim’s employment situation , loss of earnings , psychological damages , and moral prejudice due to the violation of dignity. the amount of compensation should reflect that victims of domestic violence and cyber incitement to violence or hatred may have to uproot their lives in order to seek safety , entailing a possible change of employment or finding new schools for children or even creating a new identity. compensation should be part of the measures provided to ensure the reparation for victims.


### (44) in order to avoid secondary victimisation , victims should be able to obtain compensation in the course of criminal proceedings. compensation from the offender should be full and should not be restricted by a fixed upper limit. it should cover all harm and trauma experienced by victims and costs incurred to manage the damages , including among other things therapy costs , impact on the victim’s employment situation , loss of earnings , psychological damages , and moral prejudice due to the violation of dignity. the amount of compensation should reflect that victims of domestic violence may have to uproot their lives in order to seek safety , entailing a possible change of employment or finding new schools for children or even creating a new identity. ### (44) in order to avoid secondary victimisation , victims should be able to obtain compensation in the course of criminal proceedings. compensation from the offender should be full and should not be restricted by a fixed upper limit. it should cover all harm and trauma experienced by victims and costs incurred to manage the damages , including among other things therapy costs , medical costs , impact on the victim’s employment situation , loss of earnings , psychological damages , and moral prejudice due to the violation of dignity. the amount of compensation should reflect that victims , in particular of domestic violence and cyber violence , may have to uproot their lives in order to seek safety , entailing a possible change of employment or finding new schools for children or even creating a new identity. compensation should be part of the measures provided to ensure the reparation of victims.


### (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 gender-based violence 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 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) tailored and quality assistance and support to victims of violence against women and domestic violence should be available and provided before , during and as long as needed after the violence occured , the criminal proceedings and relevant civil proceedings (such as civil liability , divorce , termination of a legal partnership or custody 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. such assistance and support should be provided free of charge and with the possibility of recovering the costs from the offender.


### (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) tailored assistance and support to victims of gender-based violence should be available , free of charge , victims-centred and provided before , during and after violence occurred , 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 by the offender 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 gender-based violence 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. ### (46) victims of all forms of gender-based violence , including sexual violence , female and intersex genital mutilation and other harmful practices , forced marriage , forced abortion and sterilisation , sexual harassment and of cyber violence , shall be provided with appropriate and tailored support and assistance offered by specialist support services.


### (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 quality and free 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 ensure that they receive appropriate funds. ### (47) specialist support should offer victims support , including medical care , tailored to their specific needs , and irrespective of any official complaint. such services should be provided in addition to , general victim support services , which should cooperate with specialist support services , including women’s specialist support , in providing services and developing clear , commonly agreed referral pathways between general and specialist support services to refer victims of gender-based violence to services. specialist support should be provided by national , local and regional authorities , in cooperation with victims’ support organisations , or other non-governmental organisations with relevant gender-specific expertise and knowledge. member states should ensure that sufficient human and financial resources for specialist support services and non-governmental organisations are provided. member states should ensure that all victims belonging to vulnerable groups or communities receive tailor-made support based on their needs , with special attention to linguistic needs and potential past or present discrimination experiences of certain communities. support shall be provided as offline and online services according to specific needs. the services provided to victims should comply with the minimum standards for support services as set out in the ‘istanbul convention’ in particular for shelters , counselling , rape crisis and sexual violence referral centres as well as helplines.


### (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 gender-based violence 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 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 gender-based violence typically have multiple protection and support needs. in order to address these effectively , member states should provide such services coordinated through a central contact point. to ensure also victims in remote areas or unable to physically reach such centres are reached , in addition to adequately geographically distributed in person services , member states should also 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 in person and online support and protection services is provided. the website should be user-friendly and follow accessibility requirements for persons with disabilities. all services both online and in presence should be fully accessible and non-discriminatory , including interpretation and translations. moreover , staff of the centres should be diversely composed.


### (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 gender-based violence 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 and rape crisis centres , women’s advice centres , helplines , educational programmes and programmes addressing coercive and violent behaviour of offenders , should be considered essential in peace times and , particularly during crises and states of emergency , including during health crises. these services should continue to be funded and offered in these situations , where instances of domestic violence and gender-based violence tend to surge.


### (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 gender-sensitive response by trained and specialised staff. victims of this type of violence need immediate , comprehensive and essential medical care , including sexual and reproductive healthcare , such as emergency contraception , screening and post-exposure prophylaxis for stis and hiv , and safe and legal abortion , and trauma support as well as the option of long-term support , including counselling. rape crisis centres or sexual violence referral centres should offer immediate forensic examinations to collect the evidence needed for prosecution and be available in sufficient numbers and adequately spread over the territory of each member state. similarly , victims of female and intersex genital mutilation and other harmful practices , who are often girls , typically are in need of tailored support. therefore , member states should ensure they provide dedicated support customised to these victims through a multi-disciplinary and victim-centred approach and by providing targeted trainings to all relevant professionals who may come in contact with a victim or a person at risk.


### (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. harassment at work hinders the labour market participation of women. increased absenteeism , long-term sick leave , reduced productivity and consequently loss of income or future opportunities contribute to limiting women’s labour market participation. given that sexual harassment at work has significant negative consequences for everyone at work , advice on preventing and adequately addressing such instances at the workplace , including through occupational and health measures , and on legal remedies available to the employer and vitims , including on removing the offender from the workplace and providing the possibility of early conciliation , if the victim so wishes , should be provided through grievance mechanisms or 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 and sexual harassment , including at work , is considered as discrimination on grounds of sex by directives 2004/113/ec , 2006/54/ec and 2010/41/eu. given that harassment and sexual harassment at work , as well as cyber violence , have significant negative consequences both for the victims and the employers , advice on adequately addressing such instances at the workplace and ensuring a safe work environment , 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.


### (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 , regional and local helplines are fully funded , and accessible to all victims , particularly victims with different abilities , languages and literacy skills. national helplines can be operated and should be accessible 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 be fully accessible to all people , including persons with disabilities , and be available in multiple languages , and include crisis counselling and should be able to refer to specialist support services the existence of a national helpline should not be detrimental to the funding and functioning of local helplines.


### (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 , including mental health , financial situation , support in court proceedings 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 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.


### (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 gender-based violence 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 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 gender-based 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 , or lbtiq women and other lgbtiq people subject to gender-based violence , should receive specific protection and support.


### (57) women with disability disproportionately experience violence against women and domestic violence and due to their disability often have difficulties in accessing protection and support measures. therefore , member states should ensure they can benefit fully from the rights set out in this directive , on an equal basis with others , while paying due attention to the particular vulnerability of such victims and their likely difficulties to reach out for help. ### (57) women with disability disproportionately experience gender-based violence and domestic violence and due to their disability often have difficulties in accessing protection and support measures. therefore , member states should ensure they can benefit fully from the rights set out in this directive , on an equal basis with others , while paying due attention to the particular vulnerability of such victims and their likely difficulties to reach out for help.


### (57) women with disability disproportionately experience violence against women and domestic violence and due to their disability often have difficulties in accessing protection and support measures. therefore , member states should ensure they can benefit fully from the rights set out in this directive , on an equal basis with others , while paying due attention to the particular vulnerability of such victims and their likely difficulties to reach out for help. ### (57) women with disabilities disproportionately experience gender-based violence and due to a lack of accessibility and specialists service provisions often have difficulties in accessing protection and support measures. therefore , member states should ensure they can benefit fully from the rights set out in this directive , on an equal basis with others , while paying due attention to the particular vulnerability of such victims and their likely difficulties to reach out for help.


### (58) member states should ensure that preventive measures , such as awareness-raising campaigns , are taken to counter violence against women and domestic violence. prevention should also take place in formal education , in particular , through strengthening sexuality education and socio-emotional competencies , empathy and developing healthy and respectful relationships. ### (58) member states should ensure that preventive measures , such as awareness-raising campaigns , are taken to counter gender-based violence and domestic violence. special attention must be paid in awareness-raising campaigns to women experiencing discrimination and violence on the basis of the combination of their sex or gender and other grounds , and by victims at an increased risk of domestic violence. prevention should also take place in formal education , in particular , through strengthening inclusive sexuality and relationships education and socio-emotional competencies , such as empathy. prevention should also cover specific measures to prevent gender-based violence and sexual harassment and violence at the work. national social partners should be involved and consulted in these efforts.


### (58) member states should ensure that preventive measures , such as awareness-raising campaigns , are taken to counter violence against women and domestic violence. prevention should also take place in formal education , in particular , through strengthening sexuality education and socio-emotional competencies , empathy and developing healthy and respectful relationships. ### (58) member states should ensure that preventive measures , such as long-term awareness-raising campaigns promoting pro-social behaviours , are taken to counter gender-based violence. any campaigns targeting the general public need to be coordinated with specialised support services , as they are bound to increase support demand. special attention in awareness-raising campaigns should be paid to victims experiencing discrimination and violence motivated on the basis of combination of their gender or sex and other grounds , and by victims at an increased risk of domestic violence. all preventive measures need to be grounded in human rights and gender equality , and should be carried out by qualified staff. programs that scientific evaluation has identified as effective or promising in preventing gender-based violence include school-based programmes to prevent child sexual abuse or dating violence; feminist self-defence for women and girls; bystander intervention programmes; and community-based programmes to transform gender norms. they should also take place in and outside of formal education , in particular , through strengthening comprehensive sexuality and relationship education and socio-emotional competencies , empathy and developing healthy , consensual and respectful relationships.


### (58) member states should ensure that preventive measures , such as awareness-raising campaigns , are taken to counter violence against women and domestic violence. prevention should also take place in formal education , in particular , through strengthening sexuality education and socio-emotional competencies , empathy and developing healthy and respectful relationships. ### (58) member states should ensure that preventive measures , such as awareness-raising campaigns , are taken to counter violence against women and domestic violence. special attention must be paid in awareness-raising campaigns to women experiencing discrimination and violence on the basis of the combination of their sex or gender and other grounds , and by victims at an increased risk of domestic violence. prevention should also take place in formal education , in particular , through strengthening inclusive sexuality and relationships education and socio-emotional competencies , such as empathy.


### (59) member states should take measures to prevent the cultivation of harmful gender stereotypes to eradicate the idea of the inferiority of women or stereotyped roles of women and men. this could also include measures aimed at ensuring that culture , custom , religion , tradition or honour is not perceived as a justification for , or a more lenient treatment of , offences of violence against women or domestic violence. considering that from a very young age onwards , children are exposed to gender roles that shape their self-perception and influence their academic and professional choices as well as expectations of their roles as women and men throughout their life , it is crucial to address gender stereotypes as of early-childhood education and care. ### (59) member states should take measures to prevent the cultivation of harmful gender stereotypes to eradicate the idea of the inferiority of women or stereotyped roles of women and men. this could also include measures aimed at ensuring that culture , custom , religion , tradition or honour is not perceived as a justification for , or a more lenient treatment of , offences of gender-based violence or domestic violence. considering that from a very young age onwards , children are exposed to gender roles that shape their self-perception and influence their academic and professional choices as well as expectations of their roles as women and men throughout their life , it is crucial to address gender stereotypes as of early-childhood education and care. at the workplace , training and awareness raising programmes can play a crucial role in challenging stereotypes and transforming culture inside and outside work. member states should also take measures to prevent the gender-based violence and harassment at work on grounds of pregnancy and motherhood.


### (59) member states should take measures to prevent the cultivation of harmful gender stereotypes to eradicate the idea of the inferiority of women or stereotyped roles of women and men. this could also include measures aimed at ensuring that culture , custom , religion , tradition or honour is not perceived as a justification for , or a more lenient treatment of , offences of violence against women or domestic violence. considering that from a very young age onwards , children are exposed to gender roles that shape their self-perception and influence their academic and professional choices as well as expectations of their roles as women and men throughout their life , it is crucial to address gender stereotypes as of early-childhood education and care. ### (59) member states should take measures to prevent the cultivation of gender stereotypes to eradicate the idea of the inferiority of women or stereotyped roles of women and men. this could also include measures aimed at ensuring that culture , custom , religion , tradition or honour is not perceived as a justification for , or a more lenient treatment of , offences of gender-based violence. considering that from a very young age onwards , children are exposed to gender roles that shape their self-perception and influence their academic and professional choices as well as expectations of their roles as women and men throughout their life , it is crucial to address gender stereotypes as of early-childhood education and care. member states should take appropriate measures to ensure that programmes for offenders are also available for men and other people that are referred or self-referred outside of the criminal justice system and that immediate access to support is available , recognising their role in preventing future violence.


### (60) in order to ensure victims of violence against women and domestic violence are identified and receive appropriate support , member states should ensure that professionals likely to come into contact with victims receive training and targeted information. trainings should cover the risk and prevention of intimidation , repeat and secondary victimisation and the availability of protection and support measures for victims. to prevent and appropriately address instances of sexual harassment at work , persons with supervisory functions should also receive training. these trainings should also cover assessments regarding sexual harassment at work and associated psychosocial safety and health risks as referred to under directive 89/391/eec of the european parliament and of the council45 . training activities should also cover the risk of third party violence. third party violence refers to violence which staff may suffer at the workplace , not at the hands of a co-worker , and includes cases , such as nurses sexually harassed by a patient. ### (60) in order to ensure victims of gender-based violence and domestic violence are identified and receive appropriate support , member states should ensure that professionals likely to come into contact with victims receive training and targeted information , particularly taking into account the needs of victims with disabilities. trainings should cover the risk and prevention of intimidation , repeat and secondary victimisation and the availability of protection and support measures for victims. to prevent and appropriately address instances of gender-based violence and sexual harassment at work , employers , persons with supervisory functions and other workers should also receive training. these trainings should also cover assessments regarding sexual harassment at work and associated psychosocial safety and health risks as referred to under directive 89/391/eec of the european parliament and of the council45 . training activities should also cover the risk of third party violence. third party violence refers to violence which staff may suffer at the workplace , not at the hands of a co-worker , and includes cases , such as nurses sexually harassed by a patient.


### (60) in order to ensure victims of violence against women and domestic violence are identified and receive appropriate support , member states should ensure that professionals likely to come into contact with victims receive training and targeted information. trainings should cover the risk and prevention of intimidation , repeat and secondary victimisation and the availability of protection and support measures for victims. to prevent and appropriately address instances of sexual harassment at work , persons with supervisory functions should also receive training. these trainings should also cover assessments regarding sexual harassment at work and associated psychosocial safety and health risks as referred to under directive 89/391/eec of the european parliament and of the council45 . training activities should also cover the risk of third party violence. third party violence refers to violence which staff may suffer at the workplace , not at the hands of a co-worker , and includes cases , such as nurses sexually harassed by a patient. ### (60) in order to ensure victims of violence against women and domestic violence are identified and receive appropriate support , member states should ensure that professionals and volunteer workers likely to come into contact with victims receive training and targeted information. trainings should cover the risk and prevention of intimidation , repeat and secondary victimisation and the availability of protection and support measures for victims. to prevent and appropriately address instances of sexual harassment at work , relevant due diligence measures should be incorporated in company policies at all levels. in particular persons in management functions and those with supervisory functions should receive training. specialised support services and civil society organisations working on women’s rights and violence against women , should be involved in the development of the relevant policies and trainings. these trainings should also cover assessments regarding sexual harassment at work and associated psychosocial safety and health risks as referred to under directive 89/391/eec of the european parliament and of the council45 . training activities should also cover the risk of third party violence. third party violence refers to violence which staff may suffer at the workplace , not at the hands of a co-worker , and includes cases , such as nurses sexually harassed by a patient.


### (60) in order to ensure victims of violence against women and domestic violence are identified and receive appropriate support , member states should ensure that professionals likely to come into contact with victims receive training and targeted information. trainings should cover the risk and prevention of intimidation , repeat and secondary victimisation and the availability of protection and support measures for victims. to prevent and appropriately address instances of sexual harassment at work , persons with supervisory functions should also receive training. these trainings should also cover assessments regarding sexual harassment at work and associated psychosocial safety and health risks as referred to under directive 89/391/eec of the european parliament and of the council45 . training activities should also cover the risk of third party violence. third party violence refers to violence which staff may suffer at the workplace , not at the hands of a co-worker , and includes cases , such as nurses sexually harassed by a patient. ### (60) in order to ensure victims of gender-based violence are identified and receive appropriate support , member states should ensure that frontline professionals dealing with victims and offenders of all acts of gender-based violence and other professionals likely to come into contact with victims receive adequate , mandatory , gender-sensitive and systematic training and targeted information. trainings should cover the risk and prevention of violence , intimidation , repeat and secondary victimisation and the availability of protection and support measures for victims , as well as how to identify , respond and provide relevant referrals for the offenders. trainings , moreover , should include prevention and identification of sexual harassment of the most marginalised groups who are often mistrusted when reporting , such as women with disabilities. to prevent and appropriately address instances of sexual harassment at work , cyber violence at work and domestic violence , as well as its consequences , persons with supervisory functions , trade union representatives and workplace health and safety representatives , should also receive training. these trainings should also cover assessments regarding sexual harassment at work , cyber violence at work and domestic violence and associated psychosocial safety and health risks as referred to under directive 89/391/eec of the european parliament and of the council45 . training activities should also cover the risk of third party violence. third party violence refers to violence which staff may suffer at the workplace , not at the hands of a co-worker , and includes cases , such as nurses sexually harassed by a patient. in all cases , trainings should also be provided on how to prevent that the offender adopts violent or non-prosocial behaviour , and take protective measures that do not penalise the victim and other co-workers.


### (61) in order to counteract underreporting , member states should also liaise with law enforcement authorities in the development of trainings in particular regarding harmful gender stereotypes , but also in the prevention of offences , given their typical close contact with groups at risk of violence and victims. ### (61) in order to counteract underreporting , member states should also liaise with law enforcement authorities in the development of trainings in particular regarding harmful gender stereotypes and prejudices , including multiple discrimination grounds , but also in the prevention of offences , given their typical close contact with groups at risk of violence and victims. member states should recognise women's civil society organisations , including organisations working with women at a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence , as partners in policy development and implementation and should , where relevant , include them in the work of government bodies and committees working to combat gender-based violence and domestic violence. in addition , other relevant stakeholders should be consulted on relevant issues , such as social partners in relation to gender-based violence and sexual harassment at work.


### (61) in order to counteract underreporting , member states should also liaise with law enforcement authorities in the development of trainings in particular regarding harmful gender stereotypes , but also in the prevention of offences , given their typical close contact with groups at risk of violence and victims. ### (61) in order to counteract underreporting and prevent secondary victimisation , member states should liaise with non-governmental organisations , specialist services , law enforcement authorities , civil society and community-based organisations , in the development of trainings in particular regarding harmful gender stereotypes and prejudices , including multiple discrimination grounds , but also in the prevention of offences , given their close contact with groups at risk of violence and victims.


### (61) in order to counteract underreporting , member states should also liaise with law enforcement authorities in the development of trainings in particular regarding harmful gender stereotypes , but also in the prevention of offences , given their typical close contact with groups at risk of violence and victims. ### (61) in order to counteract underreporting , member states should also liaise with law enforcement authorities in the development of trainings in particular regarding harmful gender stereotypes and prejudices , including multiple discrimination grounds , but also in the prevention of offences , given their typical close contact with groups at risk of violence and victims.