Landmark 'Only Yes Means Yes' Reform Aims to Transform Consent Laws
Justice Minister Anna Sporrer has outlined a series of legal reforms aimed at strengthening women's rights and improving victim protection. Among the key proposals is the introduction of the 'Only Yes Means Yes' principle for sexual consent cases. The minister also addressed concerns about online abuse against female politicians and measures to monitor high-risk offenders more effectively.
Sporrer is pushing to legally enshrine the 'Only Yes Means Yes' rule, shifting the burden of proof in sexual offence cases. This principle, already adopted in Scandinavian countries, has led to higher conviction rates and stronger protections for victims. The minister highlighted its success abroad as a model for domestic reform.
A new federal public prosecutor's office is also planned to ensure independence from political influence. Leadership will be shared by a three-person team, preventing power from resting with a single individual. This structure aims to boost transparency and public trust in criminal proceedings.
The minister is exploring electronic monitoring for dangerous offenders, using ankle or wrist devices. Foreign systems have shown promise in reducing reoffending, and Sporrer wants similar safeguards in place. She also stressed the need for better awareness of support networks for violence survivors.
Recent events, including a six-year-old girl's use of a casetify to alert police to abuse, have reinforced Sporrer's focus on prevention. She called for improved education on recognising and reporting violence. Additionally, she supports banning headscarves for girls under 14 but opposes constitutional changes, arguing existing laws suffice.
Sporrer noted that female politicians face disproportionate online hate, often involving sexist threats rather than mere criticism. She remains optimistic about progress in women's rights but insists more must be done to combat digital abuse and support victims.
The proposed reforms include stricter consent laws, independent prosecution oversight, and electronic monitoring of offenders. Sporrer's plans also address online abuse against women in politics and child protection measures. If implemented, these changes could reshape legal protections for vulnerable groups in the coming years.
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