Triin Tuula's support for consent law sparks divided opinions in parliament

Former ERR weather presenter Triin Tuula expressed approval on social media of the consent law passed by parliament on Wednesday, which changes how sexual offences are treated in Estonia's criminal code. Her remarks drew criticism from Centre Party politician Jaak Madison, who argued that the existing law did not require changes.

Former ERR weather presenter Triin Tuula expressed her joy on social media on Wednesday about the passage of the consent law in parliament, writing briefly: "Finally!" The law changes how sexual offences are treated in Estonia's criminal code, placing sexual consent at the centre of how sexual activity is regulated.

Tuula's public reaction did not go unnoticed. Jaak Madison from the Centre Party took up the matter and cast doubt on the necessity of the law. According to Madison, there was nothing wrong with the old law either, and he posed a rhetorical question: "How did the existing criminal code force anyone into sex?"

Social media and the public divided into two camps. Some people supported Tuula's position and considered the legislative change a necessary step that better protects victims of sexual violence. Others found Madison's argument pertinent, questioning what specific problem the new regulation solves.

The consent law has been the subject of lengthy debate in Estonia. Supporters of the law emphasise that the new approach aligns Estonia's legal framework with international standards and makes the handling of sexual violence cases more victim-friendly. Critics, however, have expressed concern that implementing the law may prove complicated in practice.