Stemmeretsalder

Stemmeretsalder refers to the legal age at which an individual is considered to have the capacity to consent to sexual activity. This age is determined by statutory law and varies significantly between jurisdictions worldwide. The concept is rooted in the principle of protecting minors from sexual exploitation by individuals who are either adults or in a position of authority.

In most legal systems, the age of consent is set below the age of majority, which is typically 18 years old. This distinction acknowledges that while individuals may not be considered fully adult, they may possess a certain level of maturity to make decisions about their sexual relationships. However, the exact age and any exceptions to the rule are subject to local laws.

Factors influencing the determination of the age of consent include societal views on child protection, the perceived maturity of young people at different ages, and the desire to prevent sexual abuse. Some jurisdictions also have so-called "close-in-age" or "statutory exceptions" that may alter the applicability of consent laws when the age difference between the individuals is small or when one of the individuals is also a minor. These exceptions are often intended to avoid criminalizing relationships between young people who are close in age and acting with mutual consent. The specific details of stemmeretsalder laws are crucial for understanding the legal boundaries of sexual activity and the protection of individuals.