EU Adopts 'Yes Means Yes' Standard to Strengthen Rape Laws

European lawmakers have made a significant advancement in women's rights by voting to define sex without active consent as rape. This resolution, passed by a large majority, urges all EU member states to adopt a 'yes means yes' legal standard, which emphasizes that consent must be explicit and cannot be obtained through coercion. Currently, rape laws vary across the EU, with some countries requiring proof of force, creating challenges for survivors. The resolution is a crucial step in addressing the gaps in legislation that allow perpetrators to evade justice, especially in light of recent high-profile sexual abuse cases. The next phase involves proposing this resolution as legislation for member states to vote on.

Key Details: • The resolution passed on Tuesday by the European Parliament. • It aims to replace the outdated 'no means no' principle with a clearer consent standard. • Countries like Sweden and Spain already follow the 'yes means yes' approach. • Amnesty International reports that one in six women in the EU experience sexual violence. • Legislation will need to be proposed for EU member states to vote on in the future.