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…