Stricter penalties for paedophiles, more rights for crime victims and less prison sentences are some of the changes introduced to Poland’s penal code.

The amendments to the penal code and several other criminal laws, passed by Parliament in November, will come into force today.

Two new types of crime have been introduced into the penal code, including the rape of a minor under 15 years old and the rape of a brother or sister. Criminals who commit these offences will face from 3 to 15 years in prison.

Crimes against freedom, sexual freedom and decency were also introduced in the new penal code. Until now, people who posted photos and videos of naked people or people having sexual intercourse without their consent were not punishable. Grooming - befriending a child in order to lower the child's inhibitions in preparation for sexual abuse - will also be treated as a crime.

Promoting and praising paedophilia will be punished with a fine or 2-year prison sentence. Changes facilitating the compulsory treatment of convicted pedophiles in the outpatient or confinement were also introduced.

Nazi symbols and crime victims

The amendments into the penal code also apply to production, storage, import and sale of

Nazi or communist memorabilia, which will be punished with 2 years in prison.

The changes also aim at protecting crime victims. A person who exceeds the limits of self-defence because of fear or agitation will not be punished. (mg/pg)

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