Stefanie Hubig’s draft would also set a minimum 5-year prison sentence for gang rape and raise the minimum for sexual assault or coercion by several perpetrators from 2 years to 3.
Germany’s Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig has presented draft legislation that would criminalize sexually directed words or gestures that could intimidate or pressure another person. The draft also proposes higher minimum sentences for some sexual offenses, DW said.
Under current law, sexual assault or sexual coercion committed by several perpetrators carries a minimum prison sentence of 2 years. Hubig’s draft would raise that minimum to 3 years and set a minimum of 5 years for gang rape.
The proposed harassment offense would allow criminal charges against someone who harasses another person with a sexually meant utterance or gesture that could intimidate or pressure them. Hubig’s ministry avoids the term “catcalling” in the bill because it considers the word controversial and trivializing.
The draft would also set a uniform 20-year limitation period for prosecuting gang rape and sexual assault. The current period can be as short as 5 years in some cases.
Hubig said sexual harassment and sexualized violence are part of everyday life for too many women. She said punishments are needed to make clear that sexual offenses are unacceptable, whether physical or verbal.
The measures remain proposals.
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