Hubig told the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, as reported by the Abendzeitung München: “A five-year statute of limitations is too short for rape. In my view, 20 years would be appropriate – as is the case for comparable serious crimes.” The SPD politician announced she wants to adjust the regulation “as soon as possible.”
Support comes from the deputy chairman of the Union parliamentary group, Günter Krings (CDU). He told the Rheinische Post: “Someone who has experienced rape often needs years, sometimes decades, before they are able to take the step of filing a complaint.” A longer statute of limitations gives victims the necessary space. However, Krings rejects a tightening of sexual criminal law toward an “only yes means yes” principle, citing problems with evidence.
Hubig pointed to other European countries such as Spain, France, and Sweden, which have already introduced the consent principle. In Germany, the “no means no” principle has been in effect since November 2016. The reform was an important step, Hubig said. “In my view, the time is now ripe for the next step.”
Source: Stadt München
