On 21 October, the Committee of Ministers closed its supervision of the European Court of Human Rights’ judgments in M.G. v. Lithuania and E.L. v. Lithuania. Both cases concerned the authorities’ response to sexual offences against children.
In M.G., the Court found, in particular, that the criminal proceedings regarding an attempted sexual assault had taken too long, the applicant’s particular vulnerability as a child had not been properly considered, and the decision to suspend the offender’s prison sentence had not been adequately justified. In E.L., the Court found that the investigation into alleged sexual abuse had not been effective, including because the authorities had not arranged a forensic psychological and psychiatric examination of the child.
Lithuanian law now prevents courts from suspending sentences for sexual offences. Investigations into sexual offences against children and related forensic examinations are also treated as urgent. These cases are generally handled by prosecutors experienced in juvenile justice and sexual offences.
Children are usually questioned only once, in child-friendly premises, before a judge and with a psychologist present. The interview is recorded and contact with the suspect is avoided. Prosecutors, police, child-protection services, psychologists and healthcare specialists also work together to protect children during investigations.
The authorities have issued guidance on examining child victims promptly and require forensic experts to renew their certification regularly. Prosecutors also receive training on child psychology, interviewing children, sexual violence and preventing further harm to victims.
