Raising the age limit for the statute of limitations for sexual offenses against children
On September 12, 2024, the National Council voted against the will of the Federal Council by 101 votes to 75 and 16 abstentions to rule out a statute of limitations for sexual offenses if the victim is younger than 16. The current age limit is twelve years.
New criminal law on sexual offenses from July 1, 2024
On July 1, 2024, the new sexual criminal law came into force, including the new definition of rape – the most important changes.
Usability of privately collected but publicly accessible evidence in criminal proceedings
In principle, evidence gathered by private individuals cannot be used in criminal proceedings, as the gathering of evidence is a matter for the criminal prosecution authorities. However, if privately collected evidence is also publicly accessible, for example via social media, it is generally lawful.