EU Agrees Major Upgrade of Rights and Support for Crime Victims

The European Parliament has backed a significant reform of European Union rules designed to strengthen the rights, protection and support available to victims of crime across member states, marking one of the most substantial updates to victims’ legislation in recent years.

The revised framework introduces a broad set of measures aimed at improving how victims are treated during criminal investigations and court proceedings, while also expanding access to healthcare, legal assistance and psychological support.

Across the EU, it is estimated that around 70 million people experience crime every year, ranging from theft and assault to online fraud, exploitation and gender-based violence. However, a large number of cases are never reported, often due to fear, lack of awareness or limited access to support services.

In Malta alone, the CrimeMalta Observatory recorded 16,662 offences in 2024, with theft, fraud and domestic violence among the most frequently reported crimes.

A central feature of the reform is the creation of an EU-wide victim support helpline, accessible via the 116 006 number, alongside digital platforms and mobile applications offering information, guidance and referrals to specialist services.

Member states will also be required to strengthen national victim support systems. This includes faster compensation processes, expanded access to legal aid and stronger safeguards to protect victims’ privacy during criminal proceedings, including restrictions on the disclosure of personal data to offenders.

The new rules also introduce online crime reporting tools, making it easier for victims to report offences digitally. Additional safeguards ensure that people in vulnerable situations, such as those in detention or care facilities, can report crimes effectively, including through trusted third parties like civil society organisations.

Special provisions have been included for child victims, such as child-friendly reporting procedures, psychological care, medical examinations and video-recorded testimony to reduce the need for repeated court appearances.

The legislation also places greater responsibility on EU countries to properly fund victim support services, aiming to reduce inequalities in access across the bloc. In Malta, support is currently provided by organisations such as Victim Support Malta.

Before becoming law, the directive still requires approval by the Council of the European Union, after which member states will have two years to implement the changes into national legislation.