Only "yes" means "yes" – this must finally apply in German criminal law as well!
I am pleased that Justice Minister Hubig is advocating for a "only yes means yes" rule for young people at the European level. Germany must now follow suit – and quickly. Countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Spain have long since shown how it can be done. A clear guideline on consent for sexual contact is not only possible, but long overdue.
Why? Because those affected often have to justify why they didn't say "no" clearly enough – especially in situations involving pressure or power imbalances. This is absurd and must change.
But that's not all: While sexual abuse of children up to the age of 13 is clearly prohibited under criminal law, we must also ensure that young people aged 14 and over are effectively protected from sexualized violence.
The current draft law implementing the directive on combating trafficking in human beings into criminal law now regulates the sexual exploitation of young people more clearly, which I very much welcome. However, the digital dimension of sexual violence and exploitation of young people must be given even better consideration in criminal law. Only in this way can young people be protected more effectively.
"All rights belong to Kerstin Claus"