New EU Legislation Criminalises AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse Material
The European Union is set to introduce new legislation that will criminalise AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and remove statutes of limitation on child abuse crimes across Europe. This move comes as part of the revision of the Combating Child Sexual Abuse Directive, which is scheduled for a vote in the European Parliament.
Maria Walsh, a member of the European Parliament’s committee overseeing this directive, confirmed that the legislation will cover the creation, possession, and distribution of AI systems used to produce such abusive content. The rapid advancement of AI technology has made it easier to generate harmful material, raising urgent legal and ethical concerns.
Addressing AI-Driven Abuse
Concerns around AI's misuse have intensified, especially regarding apps that can create sexually explicit images of children. These so-called “nudification” apps use AI to manipulate real photos, often of women and girls, to produce deepfake images that falsely depict them naked. This misuse poses severe risks to victims and survivors of abuse.
Authorities in the UK have already taken steps by introducing tough laws against these technologies, making it the first country to do so. The upcoming EU legislation will criminalise AI-generated child sexual abuse material for the first time at the European level.
Legal and Social Implications
Walsh emphasises that AI-driven sexual abuse of children victimises real individuals, including survivors of past abuse. The legislation will also remove the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse crimes in all EU member states. This is significant because, on average, victims disclose abuse at the age of 52, and one-third never disclose at all.
She highlighted Ireland’s painful history regarding the mistreatment of vulnerable groups but stressed that the problem extends across the entire European Union. The goal is clear: abusers must not evade accountability, ensuring justice remains accessible for life to survivors.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know has been affected by child sexual abuse or related issues, the following helplines provide confidential support:
- Dublin Rape Crisis Centre – 1800 77 8888 (free, 24-hour helpline)
- Samaritans – 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org (suicide, crisis support)
- Pieta – 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 (suicide, self-harm)
- Teenline – 1800 833 634 (for ages 13 to 19)
- Childline – 1800 66 66 66 (for under 18s)
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