Croatia introduced new punishments for the charge of femicide, the Prime Minister amended the criminal code to classify it as a standalone offence carrying a minimum sentence of 10 years. Few European countries have taken this step, Malta and Cyprus currently recognize femicide in their legal systems. However, despite these legislative changes, significant gaps remain in providing women with safety and shelter from gender-based violence there are still changes needed within the structures for providing women safety and shelter gender-based violence. Financial sustainability is crucial for funding shelters and staff, particularly in rural areas where resources for women with disabilities, health issues, pregnancies, or addictions are lacking. Strengthening these support systems is essential to fostering trust and ensuring real protection for women at risk.