The European Parliament is urging the European Commission to propose legislation that would define rape across the EU based on the absence of freely given, informed, and revocable consent. This call follows a report adopted by the Committees on Civil Liberties and Women’s Rights, which passed with 75 votes in favor, 27 against, and three abstentions.
Currently, some EU member states use definitions of rape that require proof of force or violence. The report asks these countries to update their laws to meet international standards such as those set by the Istanbul Convention, which was ratified by the EU in 2023. It also emphasizes the need for adequate support and protection for victims and survivors.
The report argues that only legislation centered on consent can ensure effective access to justice. Evidence suggests this approach improves reporting rates, convictions, and recovery for victims. MEPs believe new legislation should work alongside the 2024 EU directive aimed at combating violence against women and domestic violence by setting common standards for prevention, protection, and victim support. They also repeat calls for gender-based violence to be added to the list of EU crimes under Article 83(1) TFEU.
MEPs highlight that sexual violence often intersects with other forms of discrimination. They urge member states to provide comprehensive medical care—including sexual and reproductive health services like abortion—psychological support, legal assistance, around-the-clock crisis centers, free specialized services, and effective reparations mechanisms. The report also recommends extending limitation periods for rape offences because many victims delay reporting due to trauma or social pressure.
Addressing digital violence is another focus of the report. MEPs advocate for guidelines on sexuality education in 2026 and awareness campaigns across Europe targeting myths about rape as well as online misogynistic content such as incel propaganda.
They call for tailored training programs for law enforcement officials, judges, prosecutors, healthcare workers, and frontline service providers to prevent secondary victimization and eliminate harmful gender stereotypes. The report requests increased cooperation with civil society organizations and agencies like the European Institute for Gender Equality and Fundamental Rights Agency.
Evin Incir (S&D, Sweden), rapporteur from the Civil Liberties Committee said: “It is unacceptable that in 2026, in parts of the EU, women are still not protected by consent-based rape laws. Today’s vote brings us one step closer to creating a common, EU-wide definition of rape. ‘Yes means yes’ — and it must carry the same meaning in every member state. Women and girls deserve equal protection, regardless of where they live. I now urge the entire Parliament to complete this work in March by backing this report, and I call on the Commission to put forward a legislative proposal.”
Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus (S&D, Poland), rapporteur from the Women’s Rights Committee stated: “Much has changed since the Council opposed the inclusion of a consent-based definition of rape in the Violence Against Women Directive. Since then, the case of Gisèle Pelicot has shaken the whole world. Her courage to speak out has opened the eyes of even the most conservative opponents of this change. We have an obligation to use this momentum—not tomorrow but now. The European Parliament has listened to the voice of Gisèle Pelicot and millions of Europeans. The political will is there so the only question that remains is: what is the European Commission waiting for?”
The full Parliament is expected to consider this report during its plenary session scheduled from March 25-26 in Brussels.
