Statement by Commissioner Jourová on the European Day for victims of crime

Brussels, 22 February 2017

On the European Day for Victims of Crime, Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality, Vera Jourová, said:

“Every year across the EU, around 1 in 7 people fall victim to crime. All victims of crime need to be treated with dignity and given the support and protection they need. My message to them is: Europe is on your side.

The Victims’ Rights Directive, which gives all victims of crime across Europe the right to protection, assistance and support, should have been in place in all Member States over a year ago.

But rights are not enough if they are not applied in practice. I call once again on all Member States that have not yet transposed the Victims’ Rights Directive into their national legislation to do so without further delay.

Last week, new rules were adopted to better protect victims of terrorism. They will ensure that victims of terrorism will receive the protection, advice and support they need, wherever they are in Europe, immediately following an attack and for as long as necessary.

This year, I’d like to focus on women. One in three has experienced some form of gender-based violence in their lifetime. Female victims of any form of violence should not be blamed for what has happened to them.

This is why the Commission launched a campaign in 2017 to raise awareness on this issue.

I want these women to know that they can go to the authorities and be heard by police, prosecutors and judges, all trained to listen to them. They should feel safe during a trial and feel protected from the offender outside the courtroom. They should also have access to support services tailored to their individual needs.

Violence, whatever its nature, is a violation of our European values and fundamental rights.

We must fight it together and give its victims all the support they need to rebuild their lives.”

Europa.ba