Estonia is choosing a new law. The new law is the yes-model. The yes-model means that sexual activity must be consensual. A sexual act without consent is a crime.
Consent is important. Consent can be given through words or body language. Silence is not consent. Consent must be free.
Estonia's old laws are insufficient. Before, the victim had to say 'no'. The new law changes this. Now, rape is the absence of consent.
Consent does not apply if a person is sick, drunk, or frightened. It also does not apply if they are being threatened.
The Minister of Justice says that people are afraid of false accusations. In Estonia, the presumption of innocence applies. Guilt can only be established with evidence.
Legal scholars say that the current laws are sufficient. The Supreme Court has already expanded the laws.
The new law may come into effect next year. The Riigikogu will discuss it in September.