Criminalisation of virginity tests, virginity certification and hymen reconstruction surgery
Published:
The Riksdag has voted in favour of the Government’s proposal that virginity tests, certification of virginity and hymen reconstruction surgery are to be criminalised, both inside and outside the healthcare system. The amendments aim to strengthen the protection of girls and women living in an honour-based context.
The penalty for virginity testing and hymen reconstruction surgery is up to one year’s imprisonment. The penalty for certifying virginity is a fine or at least six month’s imprisonment.
The Riksdag has also voted in favour of the Government’s proposal that failure to disclose or prevent the crime of forced marriage and child marriage should be criminalised, that is that it will become a criminal offence not to disclose or prevent ongoing crimes.
The amendments will come into force on 1 December 2025.