Government proposes criminalizing psychological abuse, tougher domestic violence laws
The Dutch government wants to criminalize psychological abuse and coercive control. It also wants tougher penalties for offenders who kill a partner after a pattern of domestic abuse. The aim behind the measures is to prevent femicide.
Justice and Security Minister David van Weel published the draft legislation Monday for public consultation.
The proposal would allow judges to impose up to 30 years in prison or life sentences for manslaughter if the killing followed a pattern of physical abuse or coercive control. The change applies when prosecutors cannot prove premeditation. Those offenders are currently convicted of manslaughter, which carries a maximum 25-year prison sentence, instead of murder.
"Psychological violence has major consequences for victims, but at the moment it is not always punishable. As a result, police and prosecutors are too limited in their ability to act, including in situations that are serious or escalating," Van Weel said. He added that the proposal is intended to help prevent femicide.
The bill would make psychological abuse and coercive control explicit criminal offenses. Psychological abuse includes repeated patterns of belittling, intimidation, and bullying. Coercive control involves systematically humiliating a partner, instilling fear, restricting their freedom, or constantly monitoring them.
The Public Prosecution Service would also be able to open cases involving coercive control, psychological abuse, and stalking without waiting for a victim to file a complaint.
The legislation fulfills a promise made during the previous Cabinet by then-State Secretary Coenradie. Experts say psychological abuse often precedes physical violence and femicide.
A 2024 study found about 200,000 people experienced psychological abuse. That included about 130,000 women and 70,000 men.
The proposal also expands the law on sextortion. Blackmail involving sexual photos or videos currently is punishable only if a victim is forced to act. Under the proposal, the threat alone would be enough for prosecution.
The draft is open for public feedback. The Cabinet will review the responses before sending the bill to both houses of parliament.
