Background & Purpose
Many forms of psychological abuse, such as constant monitoring or degrading comments, have previously been difficult to prosecute under existing laws. This new law aims to close that gap and protect individuals from behavior that breaks down their self-esteem.
The Decision
The parliament decided that repeated psychological abuse, including threats, forced control, and constant monitoring, will now be a punishable crime with a maximum prison sentence of four years.
Does this affect you?
- Victims of domestic abuse: Individuals living in abusive relationships will have stronger legal protection against non-physical control and mental degradation.
- Law enforcement and prosecutors: Police and prosecutors receive a clearer legal framework to investigate and charge individuals for psychological violence that was previously hard to prove.
In Practice
- Repeatedly insulting, blaming, or humiliating a person will now be a criminal act.
- Constant, unwanted monitoring of a person's life will be punishable by law.
- The law specifically targets behavior that is intended to, or results in, serious damage to a person's self-esteem.
- Offenders can face up to four years in prison for these actions.