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Press release
17-06-2025
Plenary session
LIBE
Fight against child sexual abuse: updated rules to address new technologies [24]
Higher maximum penalties for several forms of abuse
An end to limitation periods, to give victims time to speak up
A new definition of consent for minors above the age of consent
On Tuesday, Parliament adopted its position on draft legislation to improve EU countries’ capacity to fight child sexual abuse effectively.
MEPs backed an update to EU-wide definitions of the crimes linked to child sexual abuse (CSA) and exploitation. The proposal is designed to adapt legislation to new technologies, for example artificial but realistic-looking deepfake CSA material, and ensure that abuse and solicitation can be prosecuted regardless of whether they occurred online or in the real world.
Stiffer punishments and no limitation periods*
In their amendments, MEPs propose to raise the maximum punishments for a number of CSA offences, including for sexual activities with children above the age of sexual consent who do not consent. Other examples are recruiting children for exploitation in prostitution, possessing or distributing CSA material, and offering remuneration for certain CSA crimes.
MEPs also want to abolish limitation periods for crimes covered by the updated law, since statistics show that the majority of victims only speak up long after the offence occurred. Victims should also be able to seek compensation indefinitely.
New technological crimes*
To bring EU laws up to date with technological developments, MEPs want to criminalise explicitly the use of artificial intelligence systems “designed or adapted primarily” for CSA crimes. They have also endorsed provisions on the livestreaming of CSA, and dissemination online of related material.
To make investigations more effective, MEPs are pushing for the possibility to conduct undercover investigations and employ covert surveillance methods.
Definition of consent and exemption for peers*
MEPs want a new definition of consent specifically for children over the age of sexual consent. Consent-based interactions between peers should not be criminalised unless there is dependency or an abuse of trust. Pretending to be a peer should, however, be a punishable aggravating circumstance.
Victim support *
Child victim support should be free of charge and include medical and forensic examinations, help with documenting evidence, gender-sensitive medical care and access to sexual and reproductive healthcare. MEPs want this to be in line with the Barnahus model [25], where services come together under one roof to support child victims.
Third parties, such as civil society organisations, should also be able to report crimes.
Quote*
Rapporteur Jeroen Lenaers [26] (EPP, Netherlands) said: “The law we voted for today is ambitious, but we can never be ambitious enough when it comes to protecting children. We are criminalising child sexual abuse manuals, and lifelike AI material will be treated the same as real material. We also need to abolish the statutes of limitations for child sexual abuse crimes, because there can be no deadline on justice.”
Next steps*
The EP position was adopted with 599 votes in favour, 2 against and 62 abstentions. Negotiations between Parliament and Council on the final form of the law are scheduled to begin on 23 June.
Background*
The recast directive on sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children, child sexual abuse material, and solicitation of children will harmonise EU countries’ definitions of and punishments for these crimes, covering both online and offline activity.
A separate proposal for a regulation on child sexual abuse material online [27] is also being discussed by lawmakers. The European Parliament adopted its position [28] on the draft regulation in 2023 and is waiting for the Council to reach a common position.
Further information
[29] scribo-webmail-arrow [62]
Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs
[30] scribo-webmail-arrow [63]
Steps of the procedure
[31] scribo-webmail-arrow [64]
Draft position tabled for plenary
[32] scribo-webmail-arrow [65]
EPRS At a Glance: Revision of the Child Sexual Abuse Directive
Janne OJAMO
Press Officer
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