The European Commission launched a consultation related with the ongoing impact assessment for the revision of the EU Victims’ Rights Directive. This consultation is directed towards all stakeholders and citizens with an interest in the topic and should gather their views on possible policy options. In particular, the consultation is aimed at identifying possible ways in which the existing rights of victims, including those already specified in the Directive, could be further strengthened. The revision of the Victims’ Rights Directive is part of the EU Strategy on victims’ rights (2020-2025).
The consultation is open for 12 weeks and will close on 31 May 2022. To access the public consultation, please click here. The consultation has been launched in English, but other language versions will be available from 21 March 2022.
The Victims’ Rights Directive establishes minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime and ensures that persons who have fallen victim to crime are recognised and treated with respect. The Directive prescribes that they must receive proper protection, support and access to justice. The Directive further provides for rights of victims and their family members to information, support and protection, as well as victims’ procedural rights in criminal proceedings.
The Directive also requires that EU countries ensure appropriate training on victims’ needs for those officials who are likely to come into contact with victims.
La Strada International members have been promoting and monitoring the implementation of the Victims’ Rights Directive and advocate for adequate implementation of its rights provisions.
See also earlier LSI articles on the Victims’ Rights Directive evaluation https://www.lastradainternational.org/news/evaluation-eu-victim-rights-directive/ and https://www.lastradainternational.org/news/ec-launches-public-consultation-on-evaluation-of-victims-rights-directive/