Turkey responds to reactions against treaty withdrawal

Turkey responded late on March 21 to international reactions following its decision to withdraw from a European treaty aimed at preventing and combating violence against women.

"The Republic of Turkey's withdrawal from the treaty should not be interpreted as compromising on combating violence against women," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

"Women's rights in the national legislation of the Republic of Turkey are safeguarded by the most advanced norms," the statement said.

Noting that Turkey has stood by women in advancing their rights, strengthening their social role and protecting them against violence, the ministry said "the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence is a convention prepared with the main purpose of combating violence against women."

However, it added that "elements of the Convention and various practices created sensitivity in the public and caused criticism."

The ministry pointed out the "discussions in many countries within the Council of Europe regarding the Convention" and said "some countries that have signed the Convention have refrained from ratifying it."

With the understanding of zero tolerance of violence against women, the ministry said Turkey will continue to take all necessary measures to strengthen women's rights.

The ministry's statement came after senior U.S. and European officials voiced regret over Turkey's decision to withdraw from the treaty.

U.S. President Joe Biden said Sunday that Turkey's decision was "deeply disappointing."

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said: "We cannot but regret deeply and express incomprehension towards the decision of the Turkish government to withdraw...