On November 1, 2022, an amendment to the law entered into force, according to which an adult under the age of 16 may not engage in sexual relations. Voluntary sexual relations between young people is not prohibited if the age difference between the partners is up to five years.
The concern, which has been on the agenda in society for many years, that an adult's sexual relationship with a child under the age of 16 is a threat to a young person in the formative years, will be solved today. The age limit for sexual self-determination will be raised to 16 years of age in order to better protect young teenagers.
"16-year-olds are significantly more mature in matters of sexuality than 14-year-olds, and the risk of being manipulated by an adult is therefore much lower. Sexual relations between an adult and a teenager under the age of 16 were very unequal and had a harmful effect on young people. Therefore, in the future, such relationships will no longer be allowed and will be punishable," said Justice Minister Lea Danilson-Järg.
Research shows that the majority of sexual relationships among 14-16-year-olds take place between peers or young people with a small age gap. Therefore, when setting a higher age limit, an exception has been made for cases where a 14-16-year-old minor and an adult up to 5 years older have found each other. The relationship must be desired and voluntary for both.
"An adult is still not allowed to enter into a sexual relationship with a young person under the age of 18, if this adult is a family member of the young person or another person in a position of trust or influence. For example, he must not be a teacher or coach, as there is a risk that he may exploit the young person's dependence and his own influence. This ban has been in effect since 2013 to protect children and young people from exploitation," said the Minister of Justice.
Along with the increase in the age limit for sexual self-determination, a change came into effect, according to which only adults can marry.
The need to change the age limit for sexual self-determination had been pointed out by organizations related to child protection, legal protection and sexual health promotion. The changes were preceded by extensive discussions in the media, among specialists and in the Riigikogu The unicameral parliament of Estonia. .