Parliamentary committee on sexual violence in the church calls for sexual abuse commissioner and centre of expertise
A special commissioner for sexual transgressive behaviour and violence towards minors and vulnerable persons should be created. It’s one of 137 recommendations made by the parliamentary commission of inquiry into sexual violence in the church and beyond. The commission also calls for a new centre of expertise, better compensation for recognised victims and the creation of a compensation fund.
Following the VRT’s airing of ‘Godvergeten’ (Godforsaken), a documentary series on sexual violence within the Roman Catholic Church and religious organisations, the chamber of representatives established a parliamentary commission of inquiry into child abuse and sexual violence, inside and outside the Church. The commission presented its final report today.
The inquiry committee hopes the report will provide guidance "to get a better grip on the underestimated social problem" of sexual violence in our society. "After all, it is our duty as a society to protect the most vulnerable," said commission chair Sophie De Wit (Flemish nationalist/N-VA).
The commission of inquiry concludes that there is "a very great need for further follow-up and recognition but also for independent scientific research into sexual violence, both inside and outside the Church."
The report contains 137 recommendations to step up the fight against child abuse and sexual violence. "These recommendations also provide a roadmap for concrete actions to be taken to ensure the well-being and safety of children. Children and victims past, present and future. The victims have waited long enough."
During the presentation of the report in parliament chair De Wit listed some key recommendations:
A coordinated approach: the committee calls for the appointment of a commissioner for sexual transgressive behaviour and sexual assault on minors and vulnerable persons. He or she will serve as a central point of contact for various policy makers.
This person will take charge of the new sexual violence centre of expertise that is still to be established,
Need for recognition and answers in (time-barred) individual cases: the establishment of a new, independent arbitration commission with a focus on victims of non-acute sexual violence and legally time-barred acts.
Stronger focus on care for victims, better access to psycho-traumatic care. And improved legal support.
Creation of a compensation fund and 18 November as a day of remembrance for all victims of sexual violence.