Directive (EU) 2026/1472 amends Directive 2012/29/EU, which establishes minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime across the EU. The revision follows the European Commission’s evaluation of the 2012 Directive, published in 2022, which identified shortcomings in its implementation and practical application. In July 2023, the Commission presented a proposal to address these shortcomings and strengthen the existing framework, including by improving victims’ access to information, support and protection and facilitating their participation in criminal proceedings. The European Parliament and the Council reached a provisional agreement on the revision in December 2025, and the revised directive was formally adopted in June 2026. It is published in the Official Journal on 30 June 2026 and will enter into force 20 days later.

The revised directive introduces a number of measures affecting victims’ rights and access to support. It provides for an EU-wide victims’ helpline using the number 116 006, through which victims can receive information, emotional support and referrals to relevant services. It also facilitates the reporting of crime, including by making online reporting available for certain offences and allowing reporting through third parties in certain circumstances. The new rules strengthen safeguards for victims’ personal data, improve access to legal aid and compensation, and provide for enhanced support and protection for victims with specific needs, including children and victims of sexual violence.

Victim Support Europe welcomed the adoption of the revised directive, describing it as an important step towards improving access to justice, support and protection for victims of crime across the EU. The organisation particularly highlighted improvements in access to support services, the new EU-wide helpline and measures aimed at making reporting and access to justice easier. It also underlined the important role of victim support organisations in ensuring that victims can access these rights and services in practice, and stressed that effective implementation will be essential to turn the revised rights and standards into tangible improvements for victims.

For more information on victims’ rights in the EU and the 2026 revision of the Victims’ Rights Directive, visit the European Commission’s dedicated webpage.