23/07/2025
SDLP Calls For Deepfake Criminalisation To Deliver For Victims
SDLP East Derry MLA Cara Hunter has voiced strong support for the recently announced public consultation by Justice Minister Naomi Long, which aims to criminalise the creation and sharing of sexually explicit deepfake images.
Ms Hunter emphasised that the consultation, set to run until October, must ultimately lead to robust legislation that prioritises victims and ensures perpetrators face serious consequences.
"After sustained campaigning in the North and Britain I strongly welcome this public consultation that must lead to serious consequences for anyone involved in the creation and sharing of sexual deepfake images," said Ms Hunter.
She highlighted the devastating impact these fake images can have: "These fake images can ruin lives. Victims often have to put up with images being shared widely online and this is an incredibly dehumanising and humiliating experience that can impact jobs, relationships and day-to-day life, leading to mental and other health problems."
Ms Hunter expressed satisfaction that the legal system is beginning to adapt to technological changes but stressed the importance of victim-centred legislation. "We must ensure that any legislation emanating from this consultation is victim-centered and takes into account the harm caused by these images and treats offenders accordingly," she stated. While the current consultation specifically applies to adults, Ms Hunter also called for similar measures to be taken to protect children from online harm.
She urged a widespread public response to the consultation to send a clear message about the urgency of tackling this issue. "It’s important that we see a widespread response to this consultation to send a clear message about the need to tackle this issue," Ms Hunter added. "The SDLP will continue working with stakeholders and campaigners to protect victims and to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice."
Ms Hunter emphasised that the consultation, set to run until October, must ultimately lead to robust legislation that prioritises victims and ensures perpetrators face serious consequences.
"After sustained campaigning in the North and Britain I strongly welcome this public consultation that must lead to serious consequences for anyone involved in the creation and sharing of sexual deepfake images," said Ms Hunter.
She highlighted the devastating impact these fake images can have: "These fake images can ruin lives. Victims often have to put up with images being shared widely online and this is an incredibly dehumanising and humiliating experience that can impact jobs, relationships and day-to-day life, leading to mental and other health problems."
Ms Hunter expressed satisfaction that the legal system is beginning to adapt to technological changes but stressed the importance of victim-centred legislation. "We must ensure that any legislation emanating from this consultation is victim-centered and takes into account the harm caused by these images and treats offenders accordingly," she stated. While the current consultation specifically applies to adults, Ms Hunter also called for similar measures to be taken to protect children from online harm.
She urged a widespread public response to the consultation to send a clear message about the urgency of tackling this issue. "It’s important that we see a widespread response to this consultation to send a clear message about the need to tackle this issue," Ms Hunter added. "The SDLP will continue working with stakeholders and campaigners to protect victims and to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice."
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