Lithuania backs tougher penalties in child protection plan

Lithuania’s Cabinet has backed a 23-measure plan to prevent sexual violence against children, including tougher penalties, restrictions on offenders’ contact with minors and confidential counselling for people who feel sexual attraction to children, LRT reported Wednesday.

The plan, prepared by the Ministry of Justice with other institutions, covers prevention, identifying risks, support for children, criminal proceedings, rehabilitation and efforts to prevent repeat offences.

It proposes tougher sentences for the most serious sexual offences against minors and longer limitation periods. Officials will also consider starting the limitation period when a victim turns 18.

The plan would introduce further restrictions on contact between children and people suspected or convicted of sexual offences against minors. It would also allow courts to impose additional limits on people who have served prison sentences, such as bans on contacting minors or visiting places frequented by children.

Organizations that provide services to children would be required to meet a safe-environment standard covering staff recruitment and training, prevention and investigation of possible violations, responses to incidents and support for children.

The plan also calls for free, anonymous and confidential initial consultations for people who feel sexual attraction to children and their relatives. The service is intended to assess potential risks, provide professional advice and refer people to specialist support when needed.

The Justice Ministry aims to prepare legislative amendments this year or by the end of the first quarter of 2027. Organizational measures are planned for 2027 and 2028. The plan also includes proposals to increase compensation for non-pecuniary damage.

School programmes on recognizing inappropriate behaviour, violence and manipulation, setting personal boundaries and seeking help were not included because they are already in place. Schools also run 16 certified prevention programmes focused on children’s social and emotional skills and recognizing violence.

Justice Minister Rita Tamašunienė said the government had not abandoned the idea of a public register of sex offenders, but it was not included in the plan because a proposal is already being considered by the Seimas. Parliament began considering a proposal in September to establish a public register of people convicted of offences against children.

The plan also calls for coordination between the Interior and Justice ministries to improve protections for offenders’ family members and other minors living in their immediate environment, Tamašunienė said.

Tags: child protection, Lithuania, sexual violence prevention