President, Commissioner, Council, Colleagues
Child sexual abuse is an extremely cruel crime that leaves the victim to deal with decades of trauma. In order to protect our children we need to make sure that there is no impunity for these crimes and victims get maximum help as fast as possible.
I have today three messages
First, to the victims and survivors of child sexual abuse. We met you, we listened to your stories and we heard you. We need to ensure that the victim gets all the support needed, as fast and efficiently as possible, even if the crime has not been formally reported. It is during the time of the most intense trauma that victims need most support. And they should not be denied it because they are not ready to go to the police. I would like to underline the importance of helplines and online chats – as anonymous channels in reaching out to victims. I would also like to stress the reporting obligation for those working in close contact with children. This can be a lifeline for victims and save potential victims.
Second, to the Council, on average, a victim will report a crime of abuse that happened in the childhood when they are over 50 years old. Yes, over fifty. It can take even longer to surmount the trauma or even acknowledge that they were abused. To ensure impunity we need to abolish statutes of limitations. It is crucial (for victims, also future potential victims’ protection) to be able to report and adjudicate these crimes even if time has passed. I urge the Council and Member States to rise above the „27 unique jurisdictions“ and give our children fair and equal protection across the EU, in all Member States.
And finally, to my colleagues in the house. I would like to recognize the work of the Rapporteur and Shadow Rapporteurs. Negotiations were tough and today we have a strong and ambitious Report. I am asking you to vote for the unanimously agreed Report text and our negotiators with strong and ambitious mandate. Our children deserve it. All victims and survivors of child sexual abuse deserve it. Thank you!