The European Commission emphasized that Latvia must adhere to international women's protection rules amid its parliament's controversial vote to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention, citing concerns over 'radical feminism'. The decision, driven by the far-right party Latvia First, has sparked backlash from civil society, warning it undermines fundamental rights. President Edgars Rinkēvičs must decide on ratification within 10 days, with Latvia poised to become the first EU country to exit the treaty since its ratification in January 2024.