Justice for child sexual abuse victims must not expire

The EU is set to adopt its most stringent criminal laws ever to combat child sexual abuse, following an agreement secured by the EPP Group. Today, the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee will endorse a deal with Member States on a complete overhaul of the Child Sexual Abuse Directive. The measures aim to prevent child sexual abuse, tackle the misuse of emerging technology and ensure more perpetrators face justice for their heinous crimes. 

“We delivered. This is a massive step forward in protecting children, both online and offline,” said Jeroen Lenaers MEP, lead negotiator for the Parliament.

“Throughout the procedure, we listened carefully to the horrifying testimonies of child victims, to ensure that our laws reflect their experiences and the challenges. The trauma of an abused child does not expire; neither should the period to bring their abusers to justice,” Lenaers said.

The EPP Group fought for, and won, longer timeframes during which offences can be investigated and prosecuted. Child rape will now be prosecutable at least until the survivor turns 50. 

The revised Directive will prevent abusers from hiding behind new technology. Grooming, AI-generated child sexual abuse material and the possession of paedophile manuals that ‘coach’ abusers will be criminalised across the EU.

Penalties for several of the most serious offences will be increased. Support for victims is strengthened. Member States will also be obliged to ensure that victims of child sexual abuse have the right to claim compensation from the offender.

“We can never be ambitious enough when it comes to protecting children,” said Lenaers.

Following committee approval, the Directive will be subject to a plenary vote of the Parliament before being finalised and implemented by national governments.