Armenia proposes curbs on release in child sex offence cases
The proposed Criminal Code amendments would also make purchasing sexual services from a child a criminal offence.
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The proposed Criminal Code amendments would also make purchasing sexual services from a child a criminal offence.
Deputy Interior Minister Armen Mkrtchyan presented the amendments to Armenia’s parliamentary Standing Committee on State and Legal Affairs. They would bar release from criminal liability through reconciliation with a victim or active repentance for offences against children’s sexual freedom or sexual inviolability.
Mkrtchyan said studies had found numerous court cases in which people accused of sexual or indecent acts involving children under 16 were released from criminal liability on those grounds. He described children in that age group as particularly vulnerable and constantly under the state’s special care.
The package also proposes criminal liability for purchasing sexual services from a child. In explaining the proposed offence, Civic.am, a news site close to the governing Civil Contract party, said existing liability for acts against sexual freedom or sexual inviolability covers only people under 16. The draft argues that sexual freedom after reaching 16 does not mean a child can be involved in prostitution.
The renamed Kharberd Care Centre will provide round-the-clock care and accommodation for qualifying children aged 16–18 without parental care and, in cases set by law, people formerly in that category.
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