European Parliament shared an update about taking a major step to protect women. The update highlights that a new EU law is about to take place for combating violence against women.
As per the update provided by the European Parliament, the addition that should be implied to the Eu Law for combating violence against women which are mentioned below:
- A consent-based definition of rape
- Tougher rules on cyber violence
- Better support for victims
- Parliament and EU national governments will now negotiate the final text of the legislation.
According to the sources, MEPs are ready to negotiate a draft EU directive to combat violence against women. The draft states:
- MEPs push for a broader scope to protect victims and punish perpetrators.
- Tougher stance on online harassment, such as non-consensual release of intimate material and unsolicited images of genitalia
- Better reporting and investigative procedures, enhanced support for victims
Furthermore, Parliament adopted its mandate for negotiations with Council on rules to combat violence against women, and the first round of talks will be done tomorrow. The mandate prepared by the Civil Liberties and Women’s Rights committees also asks for the following:
- Case-by-case assessments for consent
- A longer list of aggravating circumstances for offences, including those resulting in the death or suicide of dependants, crimes against a public figure, and intent to preserve or restore “honour.”
- EU rules against sexual assault, intersex genital mutilation, forced sterilisation, forced marriage, and sexual harassment in all work-related environments.
- Specific rules for online crimes, including the release of intimate material and the unsolicited sending of images of genitalia
- Improved procedures to ensure victims’ safety and health, as well as free legal support
- Enhanced reporting and evidence gathering by competent authorities.
As per the reports, Parliament’s plenary approved the report without a vote, in line with its rules of procedure.
Meanwhile, A press conference with Frances Fitzgerald (EPP, Ireland), led by MEP for the Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee, and Evin Incir (S&D, Sweden), led by MEP for the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee will be held on 11:00 CEST at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
European Parliament also shared their next step, which is as follows: The Parliament will start negotiations with Council on Thursday, and in response, the member states agreed to their position on 9 June.
