The European Parliament has adopted a resolution calling for a uniform definition of rape across the European Union, according to Euronews.
The document proposes that any sexual act without consent should be considered rape.
Clear consent as the standard
The resolution is based on the principle that only clear, affirmative, freely given and unambiguous consent is valid. It emphasizes that silence, lack of resistance or the absence of an explicit refusal cannot be interpreted as consent.
The text also clarifies that prior consent, a previous sexual relationship or marriage do not automatically constitute consent to sexual intercourse.
Push to address modern forms of abuse
Supporters of the initiative argue that evolving forms of violence — including drug-facilitated assaults and online abuse — highlight the shortcomings of older, force-based legal definitions.
Notably, lack of consent already forms the basis for defining rape or sexual violence in 17 of the EU’s 27 member states. This approach aligns with the Istanbul Convention, which has been ratified by 22 EU countries. However, in several member states, legislation still relies on proof of force or threats.
