Didier Reynders, Commissioner for Justice, said:

“Every year millions of people in the European Union are victims of crime. The Victims’ Rights Directive ensures that they have access to justice and that they are treated in a respectful manner. I encourage all those who wish to participate in this public consultation to do so. This will give us a clear picture of the effectiveness of the Directive over the last five years."

The Directive considerably strengthens the rights of victims and their family members to information, support and protection. It also strengthens the procedural rights of victims in criminal proceedings. The Directive also requires EU Member States to provide appropriate training on the needs of victims for those who are likely to come into contact with victims in their professional capacity.

To access the public consultation, click here. More information on the Victims’ Rights Directive can be found here.