Senate approves “no means no” definition of rape

The Czech Senate has approved a legislative change under which rape will be defined as non-consensual sex, rather than the current forcible sex. Sixty-three of 68 lawmakers present in the upper house voted for the bill enshrining a “no means no” definition of rape, which was passed by MPs in April, in a session on Wednesday evening.

The amendment also has another plank: Sexual acts with minors under the age of 12 will now carry an automatic charge of rape or sexual assault, instead of the hitherto charge of sexual abuse.

The legislation will come into effect after being signed by the president.