Comprehensive legislation is fundamental for an effective and coordinated response to violence against women. States have clear obligations under international law to enact, implement and monitor legislation addressing all forms of violence against women. Over the past two decades, many States have adopted or revised legislation on violence against women. However, significant gaps remain.

The Handbook first outlines the international and regional legal and policy frameworks which mandate States to enact and implement comprehensive and effective laws to address violence against women. It then presents a model framework for legislation on violence against women, divided into 14 sections. Finally, the Handbook provides users with a checklist of considerations to be kept in mind when drafting legislation on violence against women. This list highlights the importance of identifying a clear legislative goal; undertaking comprehensive and inclusive consultation with all relevant stakeholders, and in particular victims/survivors; and adopting an evidence-based approach to legislative drafting.