The European Commission has proposed a new directive aimed at combating violence against women and domestic violence. The directive, once approved by the European Parliament and Council, will oblige all EU member states to pass legislation in line with the directive’s guidelines.
One key aspect of the proposal is the inclusion of cyber crimes, such as the diffusion of online material or personal data with the objective of harming another person, cyber-stalking, cyber-harassment, and cyber-incitement to violence. The directive also calls for increased means of investigation and reporting of cyber-crimes.
The directive also calls for the provision of services for victims of violence, including those who have been victims of sexual violence. While the directive does not specifically mention abortion or emergency contraception, it is likely that the topic will be brought up in discussions by the Parliament. These services are to be provided for free and in all areas of the EU member states. The directive also allows for prosecutors to proceed with a case even if the victim withdraws their accusation.
In addition to services for victims, the directive encourages the implementation of preventive measures, such as raising awareness of the issue through campaigns and working with civil society. Anti-discrimination campaigns in the media are also promoted.
The proposal is currently being discussed in the European Parliament, with the first report submitted by rapporteur France Fitzgerald from the EPP Ireland. Fitzgerald’s report calls for the amendment of the directive to expand the definition of sexual violence and include the concept of rape by neglect. Additionally, Fitzgerald calls for a ban on prostitution and the buying of sex, as well as the introduction of rape emergency medical centers.
The report also calls for the inclusion of abortion and emergency contraception as services to be provided to victims of violence and prostitution. It also requests the provision of exit from prostitution services and the inclusion of abortion counseling in shelters for victims. Furthermore, it asks for the inclusion of comprehensive sex education and programs of early intervention, as well as the inclusion of gynecologists among professionals trained to handle victims of violence.
In summary, the directive of the European Commission aims to fight against violence against women and domestic violence and other types of sex-based violence. It includes provisions for cyber-crimes, services for victims, preventive campaigns and the possibility of prosecution even when the victim withdraws the accusation. The proposal is now being discussed in the European Parliament, with the rapporteur calling for several amendments, including to extend the definition of sexual violence and include the concept of rape by neglect, ban of prostitution and buying sex and the inclusion of abortion and emergency contraception as services to be provided to victims.
