The Croatian Presidency of the EU Council wants to ensure that the Member States will take further steps, following the adoption of the EU Council conclusions on 3 December, on strengthening the protection of the rights of victims of crime (see EUROPE 12373/15).
In a note, dated 12 February and copied to EUROPE, it acknowledges that it is too early to make a preliminary assessment of the implementation of these measures and their impact.
Nevertheless, it considers that it is useful to examine the measures that Member States intend to take, including the introduction of technological tools, which can provide victims with better access to justice. "Having an exchange of views on this topic would make it possible to map the existing situation in Member States and to identify good practices which can be applied across the EU", she said.
The EU Council conclusions emphasised the importance of informing victims about the right to compensation. According to the Croatian Presidency, this information could be provided through videos for victims, with simple and clear instructions, or through mobile applications.
It also believes that it is essential to support Member States in their efforts to develop user-friendly national websites containing information on the rights of victims of crime and the support services available throughout the country, which could be developed with the support of EU funds.
The Presidency also says that the introduction of the European victim support helpline 116 006 in all Member States would enable people who are victims of crime while travelling or who suffer the consequences of a crime committed in another Member State to use the same number and obtain information, support and guidance in the same professional manner as in their country of residence.
These topics are expected to be addressed in the framework of the new strategy on victims' rights for 2020-2024 on which the Commission is currently working and which should be presented before the summer. (Original version in French by Marion Fontana)