EU Bans AI-Generated Child Abuse Content With Tougher Laws and No Limitation Periods

EU Parliament Approves Stricter Laws Against AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse Content

On June 17, 2025, the European Parliament passed a significant update to child sexual abuse (CSA) legislation. The new rules specifically target crimes facilitated by emerging technologies, including AI-generated deepfake content. With an overwhelming majority—599 votes in favor, 2 against, and 62 abstentions—the Parliament endorsed a directive designed to strengthen the EU’s capacity to combat child sexual abuse both online and offline.

Key Updates Addressing Technological Advances

The updated legislation expands the legal framework to cover:

• Deepfake CSA content
• Solicitation conducted online or offline
• Livestreamed abuse
• AI systems created or adapted for CSA offenses
• Treating AI-generated abuse material as equivalent to real abuse

A notable provision explicitly criminalizes the use of AI systems designed primarily for child sexual abuse crimes. This includes the creation and distribution of AI-generated child sexual abuse material that mimics real abuse.

Criminalisation and Limitation Periods

Rapporteur Jeroen Lenaers (EPP, Netherlands) emphasized the law’s ambition: “We are criminalizing child sexual abuse manuals, and lifelike AI material will be treated the same as real material.” The directive also abolishes limitation periods for CSA crimes, recognizing that many victims come forward years after the abuse occurred. This change allows victims to seek justice without time constraints.

Furthermore, victims will have indefinite access to compensation, reflecting the need for long-term support.

Updated Definition of Consent for Minors

The proposal introduces a nuanced definition of consent for minors above the age of sexual consent. It clarifies that consensual interactions between peers should not be criminalized unless there is a dependency or abuse of trust involved. However, pretending to be a peer to exploit a child will be treated as an aggravating circumstance under the law.

Enhanced Protection and Support Services for Victims

The directive mandates improved victim support services across the EU, which must be free of charge. These services include:

• Medical and forensic examinations
• Assistance with evidence documentation
• Gender-sensitive medical care
• Access to sexual and reproductive healthcare

Next Steps

Negotiations between the European Parliament and the Council on the final text of the law are scheduled to begin on June 23, 2025. Meanwhile, a related EU regulation addressing online CSA material, adopted by Parliament in 2023, is pending the Council’s position.

Legal professionals should monitor these developments closely, as they will have significant implications for enforcement, prosecution, and victim support frameworks across EU member states.

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