Abstract: A multilayer recording element is suitable for the production of flexographic printing plates by digital information transfer and has, arranged one on top of the other on a dimensionally stable substrate, a layer (A) crosslinkable by actinic radiation, a layer (B) sensitive to IR radiation and, if required, a peelable cover sheet, the layer (A) crosslinkable by actinic radiation being capable of being washed out by means of a developer after imagewise exposure and consisting essentially of a mixture of at least one elastomeric binder, ethylenically unsaturated copolymerizable organic compounds, a photoinitiator and, if required, further assistants, and the layer (B) sensitive to IR radiation being a layer which is soluble or dispersible in the developer and contains, in a film-forming binder having elastomeric character, at least one finely divided substance which has a high absorbance in the wavelength range from 750 to 20,000 nm.