The Croatian government has submitted to parliament its third round of proposed amendments to the criminal code regarding gender violence and an Act on Protection from Domestic Violence. The proposed changes include stronger restraining orders, increased penalties for rape and child sexual abuse, and removal of various statutes of limitations for bringing charges. A new criminal offense of aggravated murder of a female person (femicide) is proposed. In accordance with the Istanbul Convention, gender-based violence against women is proposed as an aggravating circumstance in the commission of a criminal act.
Compiled from: Vuk Tesija, "Croatia Strengthens Penalties for Domestic Violence, Introduces Femicide Into Law," BalkanInsight, Jan. 11, 2024.