The new regulation extends victim protection to improve access to information, assistance and justice in all Member States
Madrid, 12 December 2026 - The European Union signed an agreement for crime victims to receive more support and information and easier access to justice. The new directive approved, also refers to the right to safe abortion for victims of sexual violence, an advance driven, among others, by the Kingdom of Spain.
This measure, aimed at avoiding secondary victimization, was approved in the framework of European legislation and with express respect for the exclusive competence of Member States in this matter.
With the agreement reached by the States, the Parliament and the Commission, the EU has updated its regulations on rights, protection and assistance for crime victims in force since 2015. The Directive establishes a set of common minimum provisions which do not prevent States from maintaining or increasing current protection levels.
An advance that avoids secondary victimization
The new provision includes sexual and reproductive care for victims of sexual or gender-based violence. This point includes a recital which expressly mentions access to safe abortion as a care possibility, respecting at all times the competences of Member States and their internal legislation. This is a message of reassurance for victims who will not need to go through secondary victimization.
The revision introduces measures to improve protection of victims of all types of crimes, such as setting up online help and care channels, or reinforcing protection of vulnerable groups like minors or undocumented migrants.
Furthermore, it strengthens the rights of victims during criminal proceedings: it extends the obligations for information, regulates the right of appeal and requires effective protection of privacy by concealing the address or contact details, provided the right of defence is not compromised. In addition, physical protection measures are to be implemented as necessary.
Spain, European benchmark in victim protection
Spain, European benchmark in advanced legislation for victim protection, has supported throughout the negotiation, provisions increasing protection, sharing key elements from its own model. Among them is free legal counsel, the rights of undocumented third-country victims, the right of appeal or participation in the criminal proceeding.
The role played by the Kingdom of Spain has been decisive to consolidate a text which comprehensively reinforces victim protection across the European Union.
