The aim of the thesis is to explore the ECtHR's case law on positive obligations of the Signatories to the ECHR with regard to domestic violence. Based on the initial hypothesis, the main focus of research is on the interplay between the specific nature of domestic violence and actions of State authorities. The thesis first gives a short overview of partner violence as a social phenomenon, its position within human rights law and positive obligations as well as the relevant international legal framework. It then turns to domestic violence case law in relation to ECHR Articles 2, 3, 8 and 14, followed by a general discussion on distinctive features of domestic violence, the Osman test and the role of criminal law based on the Court's reasoning. The discussion ends with an attempt to summarize the chief elements of positive obligations regarding domestic violence and a statement on the hypothesis.
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