The Law

What can the law do?

Since 1st July 2024, there is a new law that affects your legal rights. This consent-based law offers greater protection to victims of sexual violence.

The “Wet Seksueel Misdrijven”

The Dutch law on rape was updated on 1st July 2024 to better protect victims and ensure justice. The new legislation defines rape as any non-consensual sexual activity, making it clear that consent must be explicit and continuous. This change aims to strengthen the legal stance against sexual violence and improve the support for victims.

Key points of the 2024 Dutch law on rape include:

  1. Consent is Crucial: Consent must be clearly given and can be withdrawn at any time. Lack of consent now firmly qualifies as rape.

  2. Stronger Penalties: The penalties for rape and sexual assault have been increased to reflect the severity of the crime.

  3. Support for Victims: The law emphasizes better support systems for victims, including psychological help and legal assistance.

  4. Education and Prevention: There are new measures to educate the public about consent and prevent sexual violence.

This updated law is a significant step forward in protecting individuals from sexual violence and ensuring offenders are appropriately punished.

  • Understanding the difference between rape and sexual assault is important. Both are serious crimes, but they are defined differently.

    Rape:

    • Definition: Rape involves any non-consensual sexual activity that includes penetration.

    • Key Point: Penetration without consent is the main factor that defines rape.

    Sexual Assault:

    • Definition: Sexual assault includes any unwanted sexual contact or behavior without penetration.

    • Key Point: This can involve touching, groping, or other forms of unwanted sexual contact.

    The main difference is that rape involves penetration, while sexual assault includes other non-consensual sexual actions. Both crimes are serious and have severe legal consequences.

    • The law has different punishments depending on the age of the victim.

    • Example: The punishment is more severe if the victim is a child or a teenager compared to an adult.

Advice for Victims of Sexual Assault

If you have experienced sexual assault, you should take action as quickly as possible to protect yourself and get the help you need.

Contact Centrum Seksueel Geweld, especially in the first 7 days:

Centrum Seksueel Geweld: centrumseksueelgeweld.nl 0800-0188

  • Why: Centrum Seksueel Geweld (Center for Sexual Violence) specialises in helping victims of sexual assault. They provide medical care, psychological support, and legal advice.

  • What to Do: Reach out to them as soon as possible, especially within the first 7 days after the assault. This period is is important for collecting evidence and starting your recovery process.

Go to the Police:

  • Why: Reporting the assault to the police can help stop the offender and provide you with protection.

  • What to Do: Go to your nearest police station or call them to report the assault. They will guide you through the next steps and ensure you get the necessary support.

Remember, you are not alone, and there are professionals ready to support you. Taking these steps can help ensure your safety and begin the healing process.