Estonian Human Rights Centre has submitted its opinion to the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs of Estonia regarding the draft development plan for amendments to the Penal Code (commonly referred to as the Consent Law). EHRC supports the yes-model and the necessary changes to the Penal Code.

The right to sexual self-determination is one of the most fundamental human rights. Violations of this right are closely tied to societal attitudes and norms. From a human rights perspective, voluntariness and equality between partners in decision-making are crucial in sexual relationships.

“As a human rights organization, we find it essential to assess the impact of existing and proposed laws on the development of human rights in Estonia,” said Egert Rünne, director of Estonian Human Rights Centre. “While the current no-model tends to reinforce stereotypes where the man dominates the relationship, the yes-model ensures that the wishes of both parties are considered. These models can have significantly different impacts on human rights and gender equality in Estonian society. The yes-model supports the principle of a more equal society.”

In addition to protecting human rights in Estonia, the yes-model aligns with the Istanbul Convention. By adopting the yes-model in the Consent Law, Estonia sends a strong international message that emphasizes the importance of gender equality and sexual self-determination as fundamental human rights principles worldwide.

Considering the above, EHRC strongly supports the implementation of the yes-model and the necessary amendments to the Penal Code.