EU Council approves new legislation to strengthen victims' rights

The Council of the European Union officially approved new legislation on Monday to enhance the rights of crime victims regarding information, support, and protection. This directive updates the existing 2012 EU framework to better accommodate the needs of those affected by criminal acts. Key provisions include measures to make reporting crimes easier and stricter protections for victims' personal data. A central component of the new framework is the implementation of a pan-European helpline, numbered 116 006, which will provide emotional support, guidance on available services, and information on legal rights. National helplines are permitted to remain operational alongside this new European service. Minister of Justice and Public Order, Costas Fitiris, stated that the legislation aims to ensure no individual has to face the consequences of a crime alone. Member states are now tasked with developing accessible systems to facilitate the reporting process as part of the updated requirements.