The European Parliament approves the first European legislation against gender-based violence

Parliament on Wednesday adopted Europe’s first-ever legislation to combat violence against women and domestic violence, with 522 votes in favour, 27 against and 72 abstentions. The directive calls for stricter laws against cyber-violence, better assistance to victims and measures to prevent rape.

The new rules prohibit female genital mutilation and forced marriage, and set out specific guidelines for crimes committed online, such as disclosure of private information and cyber exhibitionism.

The legislation will also include a more comprehensive list of aggravating circumstances for offences that carry harsher penalties, such as crimes committed against public figures, journalists or human rights defenders. Other crimes contemplated include the intention to punish victims because of their gender, sexual orientation, skin colour, religion, social origin or political convictions, as well as to preserve a person’s “honour” or restore it.

Accessibility to sexual and reproductive health services

Priority should be given to the safety and well-being of victims, including access to sheltered accommodation. Health care must be accessible, not excluding sexual and reproductive health services. Authorities in member countries will have stricter reporting and evidence-gathering obligations. They will also have to raise awareness of the fact that sexual intercourse without consent is a criminal offence.

At Parliament’s insistence, the Commission will make a report every five years to determine whether these rules should be reviewed.

Statements by the rapporteurs

Frances Fitzgerald (EPP, Ireland), co-rapporteur of the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality, said: : “Parliament has taken the first steps to make Europe the first continent to end violence against women. This is a far-reaching piece of legislation that will prevent violence, protect victims and prosecute perpetrators. There can be no equality without eradicating violence against women; we must ensure that there is no impunity for those who commit such crimes”.

Evin Incir (S&D, Sweden), co-rapporteur of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, said: “This landmark directive reflects our unwavering commitment to strengthening women’s rights and saving lives. Let us remember this moment as a historic first step in strengthening women’s rights, pointing the way to a future where all women can live free from fear and oppression. It is a victory for justice and equality in the European Union”.

Next steps

The new rules will enter into force 20 days after their publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Member countries will have three years to implement the provisions.