Protection from sexual abuse and violence
The stricter criminal law provisions on the abuse of minors have been in force in Liechtenstein since March 1, 2023. They were introduced by the Act on the Amendment of the Criminal Code of December 1, 2022 (LGBl. 2023 No. 48). The minimum sentence for sexual abuse of minors was thus increased from six months to one year and from one to two years for serious sexual abuse. Possession of child pornographic material can now result in a prison sentence of up to three years. Anyone who produces a pornographic image using serious violence, makes the material accessible to others or offers it to others can face a prison sentence of up to 15 years, depending on the offense. In addition, the possibility of a "conditional remission" by the court is excluded in cases of serious sexual abuse. This change in the law has yet to be reflected in case law. However, tougher penalties are no substitute for prevention work, which is essential.
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) recommends a comprehensive approach to the prevention of sexual abuse that takes several levels into account on the basis of children's rights: The focus is on empowering the children themselves: They should be empowered to develop self-confidence, draw clear personal boundaries and be able to communicate openly in an environment of trust. In addition to this, educational work is of central importance in order to dispel existing myths about sexual abuse, such as that abuse is only carried out by strangers. Finally, institutional precautions must also be taken, such as mandatory training for professionals and clear and reliable reporting structures.
In Liechtenstein's alternative report to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in 2023, various civil society organizations call for a comprehensive national strategy to protect children from violence, including abuse. Awareness-raising and education programs and the establishment of a national database on cases of violence against children are recommended. This is in line with the general UNICEF principles, which recommend a holistic strategy for prevention, intervention and education.
