The EU wants a tougher and joint approach to violence against women. Assita Kanko: “Action instead of words at last”

In recognition of International Women’s Day, the European Commission has tabled a directive to encourage all Member States to better protect women against violence (and sexual violence), genital mutilation and revenge porn, among other things. For example, the Commission wants a minimum sentence of eight years for rape and victims to be offered more time to prosecute perpetrators. Procedures must be simplified, and access to the courts must be easier. “This is good news,” says MEP Assita Kanko, who urged the European Parliament some time ago with a resolution to put an end to female genital mutilation with a European strategy.

Maximum sentence of at least eight years’ imprisonment for rape

The aim of the Commission’s directive is to urge all Member States to tackle violence against women and domestic violence more rigorously and efficiently. There will be a tougher legal approach, which should better protect women from sexual violence, genital mutilation and revenge porn, among other things. In the proposal, a rapist will from now on be given a maximum sentence of at least eight years in prison and victims (e.g. children) will have more time to prosecute perpetrators. They will also be able to rely on better protection and support.

Genital mutilation

On the advice of Assita Kanko, the European Parliament previously voted on a call for a European strategy to end female genital mutilation worldwide. That resolution received broad support across the political spectrum. “We are now really starting to take action. No more words, but deeds,” says a determined Assita Kanko. “There is no place for female circumcision in Europe. Violence against women and, in particular, genital mutilation, of which I am also a victim, is finally being tackled seriously. This bill will remove as many barriers for victims as possible and punish the perpetrators harshly.”

Simpler procedures

Member States are now being asked to facilitate more, simplify procedures and, for example, simplify access to justice. It will be easier to report crimes.

Injustice must stop

“It was high time the EU took a tough stance on this. Many women suffer violence, but see the perpetrator go free or receive too light a punishment. That injustice must stop. Justice must be done. We must remain vigilant so that the law is passed quickly but is also comprehensive and protects all women.  It is partly for this reason that I have already applied to participate in negotiations on this law,” Assita Kanko says.