New EU Directive: Protection and Prevention of Violence Against Women
The European Parliament voted by a clear majority to approve new regulations aimed at combating violence against women in the European Union. The new directive includes measures that will enhance the protection of women and victims of domestic violence, as well as the prevention of rape.
Key points of the directive include:
- Ban on Domestic Violence: The new rules constitute a strong response to domestic violence, providing for stricter penalties for perpetrators and offering specialized assistance to victims.
- Prevention of Online Violence: With clear guidelines for addressing online violence, the directive bans the publication of private information and the sending of images of genitalia without consent.
- Recognition of Crimes: Female genital mutilation and forced marriages are defined as crimes under European law.
The directive also provides for improved access for victims to sexual and reproductive health services, as well as increased public awareness on the issue of consent.
With the approval of this directive, the EU makes it clear that there is no place for impunity in cases of violence against women and victims of domestic violence. State authorities are now obligated to enact stricter laws to protect these victims and prosecute the perpetrators.
Finally, the directive will come into force twenty days after its publication in the Official Journal of the EU, with member states having three years to incorporate the new rules into their national legislation.
Information from: lawspot.gr
