Where Ireland is on the road to recognising every child.

The Council of Europe treaty that recognises children as victims of domestic violence, including as witnesses.

Independent experts flag serious gaps in how family courts handle domestic violence, in data collection and in specialist services.

The first EU-wide law on violence against women and domestic violence. Ireland opted in. Children count as victims only if harmed by witnessing.

The Criminal Law (Sexual Offences, Domestic Violence and International Instruments) Bill 2025. Its directive measures cover FGM and forced marriage offences committed abroad. It does not define child victims.

Women’s Aid and others gave evidence. The Committee published its report in May 2026.

Gardaí will tell a child’s school after a domestic violence incident at home. The General Scheme gives it a legal basis.

4,755 disclosures of abuse against children were made to Women’s Aid in 2025.

Jennie’s Law (a register of domestic violence judgments), Valerie’s Law (guardianship) and limits on disclosing counselling notes. None recognise child victims.

Children’s rights in justice are a stated Presidency priority.

The current national strategy ends in 2026. Its successor is being shaped now.

Once published, TDs and Senators can table amendments, including recognition of child victims.

Not in the General Scheme. The Government has not yet said which law will carry them.

Every pledge handed over before the child-victim provisions are drafted.

This year’s theme is children’s mental health and well-being.

Every part, including the victim definition and support rules, must be in place.