Violence against women remains a critical issue in Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia

Regional reports and activists are highlighting the ongoing crisis of violence against women in Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. In Croatia, the National Day to Combat Violence Against Women is being observed, marking the anniversary of a 1999 courtroom tragedy. Activists and the SDP Women’s Forum are calling for systemic reforms, including a dedicated law against gender-based violence, standardized risk assessments to prevent femicide, and greater institutional accountability following recent killings.

In Montenegro, 2025 research indicates that one in five women has experienced some form of violence, with more than half not seeking help. While physical punishment of children is declining, psychological aggression within families is on the rise. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, experts are warning that peer violence among youth, such as recent incidents in Tuzla, often escalates from unaddressed conflicts and bullying.

Across these regions, there is a shared demand for better coordination between police, judicial, and social services to ensure that victims receive protection before violence escalates to fatal outcomes.