"Chemical subordination" in the spotlight in Luxembourg

The case of a series of rapes in Mazana shocked the community: the perpetrator had been spiking his wife with substances and providing her to other men. This shocking case raised the issue of offences related to "chemical subordination". In Luxembourg, MP Ricardo Marques (CSV) raised the topic at parliamentary level, asking ministries about statistics and measures to combat it.

The Ministers of Justice, Health and Home Affairs responded that it is extremely difficult to prove the administration of such substances: they remain in the body for only a few hours. Moreover, "chemical dependency" is not recorded as a separate category of offence in police databases. However, cases involving the administration of substances that "seriously undermine health" are still recorded.

This surge in 2022 coincided with a wave of reports of similar incidents in France and Belgium. In particular, jabbing incidents at events in Virton and Nancy caused a great deal of publicity.

Ministers recalled a number of campaigns to prevent sexual violence related to "chemical submission". In 2023, the police launched a campaign during Carnival, warning of the risks of GHB and "K.-O. drops". The police website has information on how to protect yourself and recognise the threat. In addition, the problem is addressed in lessons in schools - starting with primary and secondary education.

There are plans to re-launch campaigns to highlight the issue in 2025, which could help raise awareness, especially among young people.

Despite prevention efforts, the number of "chemical subordination" incidents shows that the threat cannot be underestimated. Lack of data and the absence of a separate offence category make it difficult to analyse and prevent such incidents. In parallel, there is a debate on the need for stiffer penalties and increased protection for victims.