Novelties Proposed by the European Commission on Victims’ Rights Protection and its Relevance for Serbian Authorities

Abstract

An estimated 75 million people in the European Union fall victim to crime every year reflects the significant impact of criminal activities on considerable portion of the population. Crime victims may experience a range of physical, emotional, and financial consequences, underscoring the importance of effective legal frameworks, support services, and policies to address their needs. The protection of victims’ rights is a crucial aspect of the criminal justice system in the EU. The EU has taken steps to enhance the right and protection of victims through initiatives such as the Victims’ Rights Directive and the EU Strategy on Victims’ Rights. The Victims’ Rights Directive, adopted in 2012, establishes minimum standards for the rights, support, and protection of victims of crime across the EU. The Directive aims to ensure that victims are recognized, treated with respect, and have access to information, support services, and fair treatment throughout the criminal justice process. In June 2022, the European Commission conducted and evaluation of the Victims’ Rights Directive as part of its commitment outlined in the EU Strategy on Victims’ Rights 2020-2025. The Strategy focuses on enhancing victims’ rights, ensuring their effective implementation, and addressing emerging challenges in this area. Following the evaluation, on July 12, 2023, the European Commission proposed amendments to the Victims’ Rights Directive. The objective of the revision is to contribute to a well-functioning area of freedom, security, and justice, emphasizing efficient recognition of judgements, improved crime reporting, and victim-centered justice, including the improved access to compensation from the offender. In the article the evolution of victim protection in European Union law, the impact of the Victims’ Rights Directive, as well as proposed amendments to the Directive will be assessed. Since, Serbia is in the EU accession process and aligning of the national framework with the EU acquis, the article will focus on implications of proposed amendments on Serbian policy and legislation. The proposed amendments will be analyzed against National Strategy on the Rights of Victims and Witnesses of Crime in the Republic of Serbia and accompanying Action plan for 2023-2025 and its implementation results, highlighting some criticisms of the new directive’s proposal also raised by some Member States.