The Ministry of Justice and Digital Development has developed a plan. The aim is to extend the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse offenses.
Currently, these crimes expire after ten years. Minister Liisa Pakosta said this period is too short. She explained that many crimes are committed by people close to the children.
Pakosta wants the statute of limitations to begin only when the victim reaches 50 years of age. This would mean harsher punishments.
The statute of limitations for the most serious crimes would be 32 years. For less severe cases, the period would be 15-20 years.
In March, a public initiative was launched calling for crimes to never expire. Pakosta said she prefers longer limitation periods but not lifelong ones.
Pakosta emphasized that after a crime, the victim should report it to the police as soon as possible. Otherwise, evidence and witnesses may be lacking.
She also stressed that the presumption of innocence applies. This means no one is guilty until a court has made that decision.
One in five children in Europe becomes a victim of sexual violence. Such cases have a strong negative impact on health. Victims suffer from stress disorders and fatigue.
Studies show that many victims are afraid to talk about their experiences. Minors become victims of sexual violence at an average age of 15.7.
Preparations will soon begin for drafting the bill. The bill is planned to be submitted to the Riigikogu for adoption.