The 2023 Council of Europe Recommendation on rights, services and support for victim of crime: Its Importance and Innovations

Since 1985, the Council of Europe has actively worked to enhance the legal standing of victims within the criminal justice system. It has adopted several legal acts that establish European standards for victims. In response to events occurring at the international level and the findings of victimological studies, the Council of Europe recognized the need to enhance the mechanisms for victim protection. Therefore, on March 15, 2023, the Ministerial Committee adopted a recommendation on the rights, services, and support for victims. Although non-binding, this recommendation holds great significance for member states because of the standards it establishes. It introduces innovations, expands on European Union standards, and reaffirms the victim's importance in the criminal justice system.