Sex without consent is rape, Sweden says

Sweden has adopted a law requiring people to get explicit consent before sexual contact, otherwise it will be considered rape.

Swedish politicians approved the change by 257 votes to 38, with 54 absentees. The law, which goes into effect on 1 July, says “it is no longer necessary for the offender to use violence or threats, or to exploit the victim’s particularly vulnerable situation” for rape charges to be brought forward.

In December, Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said when presenting proposals to change the law in line with other countries in Europe that if sex is not voluntary “it’s illegal”.

His deputy minister Isabella Lovin said the #metoo anti-harassment campaign has shown the “need” for new laws. Critics said the changes will not lead to more convictions.