Age of consent - meaning and definition
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Definition
The age of consent is the minimum age at which the law considers a person able to agree to sexual activity. It differs between countries, and sometimes between states or provinces.
At a glance
- The legal minimum age for agreeing to sexual activity.
- It differs between countries and sometimes between states or provinces.
- Some places have close-in-age exceptions for young people of similar ages.
- Higher ages may apply where one person is in a position of trust.
- The aim is to protect children and young people from exploitation.
In detail
Around the world, ages of consent commonly fall between 14 and 18, and some places have close-in-age exceptions for young people of similar ages. Laws may also set higher ages where one person is in a position of trust, such as a teacher, coach or carer.
Age of consent laws exist to protect children and young people from exploitation. This glossary does not give legal advice; anyone needing to know the rules where they live should check official local sources or speak to a legal advisor.
In a sentence
- The age of consent is not the same everywhere, so check the official rules where you live.
- Our school leaflet explained the age of consent and what positions of trust mean.
Common questions
Is the age of consent the same everywhere?
No. It varies between countries and sometimes within a country. For the rules where you live, check official local sources or speak to a legal advisor. This glossary does not give legal advice.
What is a position of trust?
It is a role where one person has responsibility for or authority over a young person, such as a teacher, coach or carer. Some laws set a higher age of consent in these situations because of the power involved.