It was reported by Amnesty International Belgium in 2020 that “77% of respondents think that the justice system is not effective in finding the perpetrators of sexual violence.” This information was part of a report titled “Rape in Belgium” that focused on all forms of sexual violence. The NGO pointed out that the published figures paint an “alarming” picture of Belgian society, with 48% of Belgians having experienced some form of sexual violence. The association also noted that “women and young people are overrepresented among the victims.”
In this particular case of sexual violence, the defendant was given a one-year autonomous probation sentence, with six months in prison if the sentence is not served.
Let us recall that according to a survey by Amnesty International Belgium published in 2020, “77% of respondents think that the justice system is not effective in finding the perpetrators of sexual violence“. This report entitled Rape in Belgium is interested in all forms of sexual violence and the published figures paint an “alarming” portrait of current Belgian society, as the NGO points out. 48% of Belgians have been exposed to a form of sexual violence, i.e. almost one in two Belgians… The association points out that “women and young people are overrepresented among the victims“.
In this case of sexual violence, the court declared the prevention established against the defendant who is sanctioned with an autonomous probation sentence of one year, or six months in prison in the event of non-execution.
The findings of the Amnesty International Belgium survey and the report on rape in Belgium highlight the urgent need for effective measures to prevent and address sexual violence. It is alarming that almost half of Belgians have experienced some form of sexual violence, with women and young people being particularly vulnerable. While the court’s decision in this particular case may offer some measure of justice, it is clear that much more needs to be done to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and that victims receive the support and protection they deserve. We must all work towards building a safer and more just society where sexual violence is no longer accepted or tolerated.