The European Council has agreed on a proposed update to the 2012 Victims’ Rights Directive, aiming to establish and strengthen minimum rules to ensure that victims of a crime receive protection, support, access to information, and can seek justice.
“Victims of crime deserve society’s full support. Thanks to targeted and integrated support services for child victims, an EU-wide helpline and the right to receive emotional support in court we are taking another important step to honour this obligation,” said Paul Van Tigchelt, Minister of Justice.
To facilitate access to justice, member states will ensure that victims can report criminal offences through easily accessible, user-friendly information and communication technologies. Victims will also be contacted by the relevant general or specialist support services if an individual assessment reveals a need for support.
Member states will guarantee that victims receive general information on the organisational aspects of the trial phase in criminal court proceedings and emotional support on the court premises. To make it easier for victims to access information about their rights, member states have decided to put in place an easily accessible, user-friendly, free of charge, and confidential victim helpline, reachable through an EU-wide harmonised phone number, 116 006.
The updated directive pays special attention to the needs of children as victims of crime. Member states will ensure the availability of child-friendly and age-appropriate support and protection services. Targeted and integrated support services will provide for a coordinated multi-agency mechanism for child victims.
On the basis of the general approach, the Council will be able to enter into negotiations with the European Parliament, which established its position in April 2024, to agree on a final legislative text.
The proposal for a revised regulation was adopted by the Commission on 12 July 2023 as part of the legislative package for efficient and green mobility. It aims to improve victims’ access to information and to enhance safety measures tailored to the specific needs of vulnerable victims.
“The updated directive is a significant step towards strengthening the rights of victims. It not only provides a platform for victims but also addresses the challenges of international recruitment,” said an EU official.
