This publication serves as a handbook for prosecutors working with medical evidence and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) in cases of violence against adult victims of sexual assault. This monograph provides prosecutors with an understanding of how SANEs focused on patient care and appropriate support services and referrals, rather than a specific investigative agenda can positively impact victim engagement in the criminal prosecution of their perpetrator. A glossary of commonly used terms used in medical examination reports is also included.
Summary of Laws & Guidelines: Payment of Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examinations (pdf)
This resource includes the laws and guidelines for each U.S. state and territory regarding sexual assault medical forensic examination (SAMFE) payment, as well as a number of charts summarizing the provisions. You can also download the 13 page summary HERE
"You were raped? How could you be so stupid?": Start by Believing (pdf)
This resource is an article from End Violence Against Women International that speaks to the importance of believing and supporting victims of sexual violence. The goal of the Start by Believing campaign is to end the cycle of repeat offenses and assure that sex offenders are held accountable for their crimes. With a positive response, victims are more likely to seek help. Changing how the public responds to stories of sexual violence will then impact the criminal justice system and outcomes will begin to improve.
'I can't afford justice': Violence against women in Uganda continues unchecked and unpunished (pdf)
An Amnesty International Report that documents obstacles to justice in cases of rape and sexual violence against women in Uganda. The report found that the society’s strong adherence to traditional values impedes the enforcement of progressive laws. The report concludes with legal policy recommendations to better meet the needs of victims.
15 Years of the United Nations Rapporteur on Violence against Women, Its Causes and Consequences (pdf)
This report reviews the status of violence against women as researched in 14 annual reports, 32 country mission reports, and 11 communication reports published as recently as December 2008. The report focuses on reproductive health and rights, poverty, migration, internally displaced persons (IDPs), women refugees, trafficking, aging, and adolescent girls. It also highlights how the mandate on violence against women has changed, what has been learned, and problems still to be addressed.
2006 WATCH Victim Impact Statement Study (pdf)
This study addresses victim impact statements as given in court regarding incidences of domestic violence and/or sexual assault and the effect these statements had on the judge regarding sentencing.
2009 Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military (pdf)
"This report discusses improvements to Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) policy and programs, provides statistics and analysis of reported sexual assaults, and outlines plans to enhance support to victims and prevent the crime."
Law review article on the use of expert testimony in adult victim sexual assault cases.
A National Protocol for Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examinations (pdf)
This protocol was developed with the input of national, local, and tribal experts throughout the country, including law enforcement representatives, prosecutors, advocates, medical personnel, forensic scientists and others, as a guide for criminal justice and health care practitioners who respond to victims of sexual assault. The protocol is intended to assist jurisdictions in developing a response that is sensitive to victims of sexual assault and promotes offender accountability.
A Struggle for Justice: Incest Victims in Pakistan (pdf)
This report highlights the difficulties women and girls are faced with in accessing justice in cases of sexual violence, particularly incest. Included in this report are a survey of incest cases in Pakistan, a summary of published legal opinions in incest cases, identification of obstacles to justice and a compilation of good practice examples from other countries that have addressed similar obstacles. The authors hope this report will be used as a guide towards making the Pakistani judicial system more supportive of future victims which will have a deterrent effect on perpetrators.
A Summary of Articles from Justice Research and Policy (pdf)
"JRP Digest contains research summaries for policymakers from Justice Research and Policy, the journal of the Justice Research and Statistics Association."
Achieving Equity for Women: Policy Alternatives for the New Administration Symposium Report (pdf)
"This report summarizes the policy research symposium convened by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research and the Wellesley Centers for Women, held in Washington, DC on April 2, 2009. The symposium highlighted four policy areas in which public policy can work to improve the status of women in the United States: women and economic recovery; retirement, social security and aging; quality early care and education; and women and health care reform."
Addressing Gender-based Violence: UNFPA Strategy and Framework for Action (pdf)
This report, grounded in UNFPA's overarching goal of eliminating violence against women and girls, identifies particular areas where action is most urgently needed and proposes general policy frameworks for combating gender-based violence.
The handbook consisits of various practical forms which were developed by advocates to evaluate criminal justice services for women in cases of rape, domestic violence and child abuse. It also has theoretical chapters on understanding how criminal justice systems can help and harm women.
An Impact Evaluation of a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program (pdf)
This impact evaluation assesses the Albuquerque Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner services in the areas of healthcare, victim services, law enforcement, and prosecution. The evaluation compares the experiences of women who sought services at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center in the two years prior to the inception of the SANE program with those of women who sought services at the Albuquerque SANE Collaborative from its inception in October 1996 through to the end of 1999. The report concludes that the "data strongly suggest that a SANE unit greatly enhances the healthcare quality of women who have been sexuaIly assaulted, improves the quality of forensic evidence, improves law enforcement's ability to collect information and to file charges, and increases the likelihood of successful prosecution"
Assault Advocacy Guide: An Advocate's Guide to Sexual Assault Policy
"This manual contains a variety of information around understanding the federal legislative process, including action tools such as tips for meeting with your legislator."
Balancing Obligations: Serving Teen Victims and Mandated Reporting of Statutory Rape (pdf)
This issue brief addresses the importance of preserving confidentiality while working with teen victims of abuse, at the same time fulfilling the service provider's legal duties.
"This manual is dedicated to answering a simple question: What do you do when a sexual assault victim walks through your door and asks for legal help?"
Case Closed: Rape and Human Rights in the Nordic Countries Summary Report (pdf)
"A report analyzing the legal framework for handling rape cases in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. The report recommends legislative changes for each country’s rape laws to increase the number of successful rape prosecutions, and to bring the laws into compliance with international law and international human rights standards."
Child Abuse and Neglect: Compendia of Civil and Criminal State Laws (pdf)
"This compendia list how each state in the U.S. defines child abuse and neglect. The compendia of civil state laws are to help legal and non-legal professionals in the analysis, formulation, and implementation of child protection and child welfare legislation. The Compendia (previously titled State Statutes Elements) contain citations and text of key civil statutes pertaining to child maltreatment, child welfare, and domestic violence. The Compendia are intended as research tools and do not substitute for the official version of any statute."
Child Protection Information Sheets (pdf)
"This booklet comprises 14 information sheets which highlight how child protection is crucial to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. Covering different forms of abuse, these sheets also outline how to build a protective environment for children and what UNICEF is doing on the ground to protect children."
Child Trafficking for Sexual Purposes Report (pdf)
End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes (ECPAT International) released a report in November 2008 on the global problem of child sex trafficking. The report sums up progress countries have made since passing laws to combat child sex trafficking. Finally, the report highlights key lessons learned and discusses six recommendations to improve strategies and policies.
"This report presents findings from the National Juvenile Online Victimization (N-JOV) Study describing arrests and characteristics of offenses and offenders for Internet-related sex crimes committed against minors."
Children’s and Adolescents’ Participation and Protection from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (pdf)
"A paper reviewing government commitments to strengthen participation by children and adolescents to protect them from sexual abuse and exploitation. The paper provides recommendations for further research, policy development, and programming to support advocacy and practice with and by children and adolescents. "
Civil Tort Actions Filed by Victims of Sexual Assault: Promise and Perils
"This Applied Research paper examines tort actions for sexual assault - law suits that seek financial compensation for wrongs that cause injury to the victim. The paper also discusses benefits and drawbacks of tort litigation for sexual assault survivors."
"This is a client-centered tool for civil attorneys new to representing victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking to provide comprehensive representation and advocacy for their clients."
Dangerous Liaisons?: A Feminist and Restorative Approach to Sexual Assault
This paper will focus on the appropriateness of restorative justice (RJ) measures in addressing sexual assault. Being part of both the feminist movement and RJ movement, the authors approach the issue from both of these perspectives.
Data Collections for the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 (pdf)
This report includes highlights of the legislation and addresses some of the complexities of collecting sensitive data from various correctional populations. The report also contains descriptions of new data collection efforts that BJS is undertaking in order to meet the requirements of the legislation.
Detained and at Risk: Sexual Abuse and Harassment in United States Immigration Detention (pdf)
This 24-page report describes documented incidents and allegations of sexual assault, abuse, and harassment in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention. The report shows evidence of a disturbing pattern of abuse, and points to an urgent need for investigation and action to correct glaring gaps in detention policy and practice. Human Rights Watch emphasizes that the agency should make improvements swiftly to improve oversight of the entire detention system and the ensure accountability.
Deterring Staff Sexual Abuse of Federal Inmates (pdf)
This report examines the prevalence of the sexual abuse of inmates by correctional staff and also analyzes the laws that exist to deter this type of abuse.
Don't Turn Your Back On Girls: Sexual Violence Against Girls In Haiti (pdf)
A comprehensive report on sexual violence against girls in Haiti released by Amnesty International in late November of 2008. Over half of the 105 rapes reported in Haiti by the end of November were committed against girls under the age of 18, according to one of the few organizations in the country which collect rape statistics. The report includes findings on rape as a political weapon, the role of discrimination and poverty, and the state’s response.
Educating Juries in Sexual Assault Cases Part I: Using Voir Dire to Eliminate Jury Bias (pdf)
This article explains strategies to educate juries about sexual violence facts and overcome common misconceptions. In addition to providing data-driven information about sexual assault based on research, journal articles, and authoritative publications, this article suggests ideas to improve jury selection techniques.
Elder Abuse and Neglect Basics: Elder Abuse Laws
This page provides a brief overview of the major areas of federal and state law related to services for elder abuse victims, civil remedies for elder abuse, neglect and exploitation, and the prosecution of crimes against elderly people.
Elder Mistreatment: Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation in an Aging America
This full book link is provided courtesy of The National Academies Press. This is an online book and can be read in its entirety front to back, by chapter or skimmed by topic of interest. Published in 2002, this book details everything from the definitions and concepts of elder abuse to the public policy implications as well as to the types of interventions available for working with this population.
Eliminating Violence against Children (pdf)
"Jointly produced by UNICEF and the Inter-Parliamentary Union, this handbook describes measures parliamentarians can take to end violence against children: they can legislate, oversee government activities, allocate financial resources and, as leaders in their nations and communities, raise awareness of issues."
"Highlights the 2 most prevalent types of abuse in the lives of women and girls around the world: intimate partner violence and rape. Demonstrates how world-wide gender-based violence is a major public health concern, suggesting strategies to respond."
Despite widespread public education, rape remains a largely underreported crime; and despite increased levels of research over the past few decades, significant gaps remain in understanding rape victimization. This NIJ Special Report takes a detailed look at the National Violence Against Women Survey findings and the researchers' recommendations for future research.
"The article begins by reviewing up-to-date research suggesting that the rate of false reporting for sexual assault is in the range of 2-8%. It also critiques prior research suggesting that the rate of false reporting is far higher, and explores the reasons why this issue is so challenging for professionals in the field. The article concludes with a discussion of how professionals can work to overcome these challenges, and how to handle the frustrating reality of "real" false reports. "
Final Report: Focus Group on Public Law 280 and the Sexual Assault of Native Women
"The Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) hosted a focus group in Green Bay, Wisconsin to discuss challenges to, and opportunities for, collaboration between states and tribes in Public Law 280 jurisdictions to address sexual assault in Indian country."
Final Report: Sexual Assault Among Latinas (SALAS) Study (pdf)
A national study focusing on Latino women’s victimization involving sexual assault. The report highlights victimization experiences, help-seeking efforts, and cultural factors. Implications for policy and future research are discussed.
Five Years On: No Justice for Sexual Violence in Darfur
"Drawing on various data sources, this report covers: Sexual Violence in Darfur in 2007-08; Government's Response; International Response; and Sudan's Obligation to Prevent, Investigate and Punish Sexual Violence."
This report is generated from a two-day meeting held in Seattle February 7 – 8, 2004 by an ad-hoc INCITE! Community Accountability in Organizations Working Group. This group specifically gathered to address gender oppression including patriarchical political and work environments, sexual harassment, domestic violence, and sexual assault committed against women/girls/women-identified persons of color within progressive, radical and revolutionary people of color organizations and movement.
Global Consultation on Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (pdf)
A report on the prevalence of female genital mutilation (FGM) and analyzes shifting global patterns of FGM and methods used to eliminate its occurrence. The report also illustrates the effects of FGM on maternal and infant health and notes law enforcement and non-profit agency efforts to combat FGM.
Good practices in legislation on violence against women (pdf)
This report comes from an expert group meeting organized by the United Nations Division for the Advancement of Women and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. The purpose of the expert group meeting was to analyze different legislative approaches for addressing violence against women; assess lessons learned and identify good practices in regard to legal reforms on violence against women; and develop a model framework for legislation on violence against women. The outcome of the meeting is intended to assist States and other stakeholders in enhancing existing, and developing new, legislation on violence against women.
Guatemala’s Femicide Law: Progress Against Impunity? (pdf)
This report places femicide within a particular historical, cultural and socio-political context describing the 36-year internal conflict that resulted in rape, torture and murder of tens of thousands of Guatemalan women and girls. Although the government has made some progress in implementing some aspects of the Law Against Femicide, the report also points out that the lack of understanding of the law, continued social unrest, poor media portrayal, and inadequate efforts to implement the law stand in the way of serious progress. The report concludes with recommendations for the government including improving investigation and prosecution of crimes of violence against women, and protection of the victims of violence and their children.
Handbook for legislation on violence against women (pdf)
Based on the work of an expert group meeting in Vienna, United Nations Division for the Advancement of Women of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs developed a Handbook for Legislation on Violence against Women. This Handbook intends to provide all stakeholders with detailed guidance to support the adoption and effective implementation of legislation which prevents violence against women, punishes perpetrators, and ensures the rights of survivors everywhere.
Handbook for legislation on violence against women (Russian) (pdf)
"A Russian translation of the 2009 Handbook for legislation on violence against women, a report of the expert group meeting organized by the United Nations Division for the Advancement of Women and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. The group studied different legislative approaches to violence against women and developed this handbook for legislation based upon best practices and lessons learned. The handbook also includes commentary on legislation on violence against women in a number of countries."
A new report from the National Coalition for the Homeless (NCH) contains case descriptions of each attack that includes sexual assault. The report notes that because crimes committed against homeless persons often go unreported, the actual numbers of non-lethal attacks is likely much higher. Rapes and sexual assaults also tend to go unreported. The report recommends that state legislatures add homeless persons as a “protected class” to hate crime legislation, and encourages police trainings so law enforcement officers will better understand homelessness and how to prevent hate crimes.
Housing and Sexual Violence: Overview of National Survey (pdf)
"This report provides a summary of key findings and policy recommendations from a national survey on housing and sexual violence. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center partnered with the Victims Rights Law Center, National Sexual Assault Coalition Resource Sharing Project, Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault, University of New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania Community Legal Services to develop and conduct this survey in 2008."
How to obtain U Interim Relief: A Brief Manual for Advocates Assisting Immigrant Victims of Crime (pdf)
This manual provides U Visa information for advocates who assist victims of crime, including domestic violence. The author outlines the definition, requirements, and application process for U Visa Interim relief and also offers information on obtaining permanent residency and derivative status for family members.
How to Write a Letter to the Judge for Victims of Rape, Domestic Violence and Child Abuse
Gives information that should help you write a more effective letter. Provides four examples of different kinds of letters you as a victim or victim advocate, may want to write to the judge in the criminal case. Also available in Spanish.
The Human Rights Brief, a student-run publication of the Center for Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, reports on developments in international human rights and humanitarian law and provides concise legal analysis of cutting edge human rights issues.
Immigrant Women and Sexual Violence
A collection of documents that highlight the common experiences of immigrant women who are victims of sexual violence, the legal protections and public benefits available, and practices and suggestions for increasing the effectiveness of services provided to immigrant women. Also included are resources and tools for immigrant women and service providers who assist them, such as advocates, lawyers, and medical professionals.
Immigration Relief for Crime Victims: The U Visa Manual (pdf)
"This manual aims to provide guidance to lawyers on issues that arise in the context of representing U visa applicants. It is designed for practitioners who are familiar with basic immigration terms and legal concepts."
Improving Judicial Response to Sexual Harassment in the Courtroom (word)
This module is intended for judges, court personnel, and other legal professionals to strategize about improving the judicial response to sexual harassment in the courtroom and in their profession generally.
As part of the International Marriage Broker Regulation Act, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services has released this fact sheet to provide immigrating foreign brides (and other marriage-based visa applicants) with potentially life-saving information about rights and resources available to them in the United States if they are abused.
Insecurity and Indignity: Women's experiences in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya (pdf)
"A report documenting women’s experiences living in Kenyan slums. It states that women and girls in Nairobi's slums live under the constant threat of sexual violence. Violence against women is rarely prosecuted, creating a hostile living environment for women and girls. Amnesty urges the Kenyan government to address gendered violence and guarantee safe access to water and sanitation."
Introducing Expert Testimony to Explain Victim Behavior in Sexual and Domestic Violence Prosecutions
"This monograph sets forth recommended practices for addressing victims behavior in a sexual or domestic violence prosecution, and providing an accurate context in which a jury can evaluate a victim's behavior."
"This guide provides information on developing gender literate sexuality education designed for policymakers, curriculum developers, and educators in order to develop sexuality/HIV education materials that also teach critical thinking about gender norms and roles. "
Link to Guidelines
Link to Activities
Justice Denied: The experiences of 100 torture surviving women of seeking justice and rehabilitation (pdf)
"This report analyzed the experiences of 100 women from 24 countries who settled in the United Kingdom after surviving torture. The report stated that almost all of the women studied had experienced at least one incident of rape or sexual assault. The vast majority were unable to find help when they sought redress and could not access legal aid or the necessary healthcare. "
Kenyan Laws and Harmful Customs Curtail Women’s Equal Enjoyment of ICESCR Rights (pdf)
"The Federation of Women Lawyers Kenya (FIDA Kenya) and the International Women’s Human Rights Clinic (IWHRC) at Georgetown University released this report as a supplement to Kenya’s latest periodic report under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). The report finds that Kenyan laws and practices prevent women from attaining economic, social and cultural Rights."
Know Your Rights: For Victims of Rape, Domestic Violence and Child Abuse
Based on California law, this indexed document provides summaries, full legal texts, and notes, on seven key victims' rights for victims of rape, domestic violence, and child abuse. Accompanying the discussion of each right is a section on what to do if the right is violated by officials. The English language document is linked to the full Spanish translation of the same document.
Legal Tools for Survivors of Sexual Assault
This article addresses legal issues that might be helpful to survivors of sexual assault and their loved ones. The goal is to provide useful information on available options to aid in the process of recovery from trauma.
Little Children Are Sacred: Exploring Accountability to Australia's Aboriginal Children
This collection explores accountability to aboriginal children in the Northern Territory of Australia through a critical analysis of government action (and inaction) - presented generally as its follow-up to recommendations in the Little Children are Sacred report of 2007 - and a review of the community-based response to the government interventions.
Making Sense of Rape In America: Where Do the Numbers Come From and What Do They Mean? (pdf)
This paper assists public policy officials, health care professionals, and other pertinent professionals in understanding how rape in America is measured, what the numbers mean, and the limitations of existing research.
"This report provides extensive research of the mail-order bride industry in the United Kingdom. The industry is linked to the promotion of trafficking, prostitution, pornography and slavery. The report suggests that this industry not only exploits vulnerable groups of women but also reinforces racial and ethnic stereotypes. Recommendations are given on what the government can do to further protect women."
Male Survivors of Sexual Assault and Rape (pdf)
"This document provides an overview of the research on male survivors of sexual assault and takes a closer look at the role that communities have in addressing this issue."
Managing Adult Sex Offenders in the Community
This report details the results of a national telephone survey identifying how probation and parole agencies managed adult sex offenders and a description of a model management process for containing sex offenders serving community sentences.
Mexico: Amnesty International Submission to the UN Universal Periodic Review
An Amnesty International report submitted to the United Nations Human Rights Council in February 2009. The report highlighted problems in the area of violence against women, in particular, the prevalence of domestic violence in Mexico and the femicides in Ciudad Juarez along the U.S.-Mexican border.
No Easy Answers: Sex Offender Laws in the US
"This report takes an in-depth look into the current sex offender laws in the US and offers a critique of such laws as well as recommendations and model programs."
"In partnership with the National Employment Law Project, the ACLU Women’s Rights Project is pleased to introduce a litigation guide entitled No Free Pass to Harass: Protecting the Rights of Undocumented Immigrant Women Workers in Sexual Harassment Cases."
Not a Minute More: Ending Violence Against Women (pdf)
This report highlights many of the achievements towards the empowerment of women and indicates what must be done to build on them. It provides examples of practices as well as efforts that did not meet the goals set out for them — and explores why. It looks at the challenges ahead and asks what the most fruitful next steps might be.
Nowhere to Hide: Retaliation Against Women in Michigan State Prisons
This report is specifically focused on retaliatory behavior that appeared to be connected to women's roles as plaintiffs in class action suits about the sexual assault of women in prison.
On the Road to Equality: Statewide Findings & Policy Recommendations (pdf)
"A supplement to the Status of Girls in Minnesota report by the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota in partnership with the Institute for Women’s Policy Research. Focus groups were conducted in 18 Minnesota communities that included African American, Latino, Native American, Asian American, LBT (Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender), and disabilities communities — to share key research findings and gain community input. This report captures the voices and policy recommendations of these communities, nonprofit and public leaders."
Options for Reporting Sexual Violence: Developments over the Past Decade
This article, geared towards law enforcement agencies working with survivors of sexual violence, explores the major changes in policies and procedures around reporting options.
Platform for Action: Towards the Abandonment of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) (pdf)
This Platform for Action summarizes the key elements on the programmatic approach to support the abandonment of the FGM/C practice and make a major difference for girls and women worldwide.
Preventing and Responding to Domestic & Sexual Violence in Later Life
"This special collection brings together selected materials related to preventing and responding to elder abuse, specifically domestic and sexual violence. It highlights the complexities of older people's DV/SV experiences and emphasizes collaborative and multi-pronged approaches to addressing DV/SV in later life."
Preventing and Responding to Teen Dating Violence
This special collection emphasizes collaborative and multilevel approaches to the prevention of, and response to, teen dating violence. It draws on the work of many organizations and organizes the resources on TDV prevention and responses by different populations.
"This toolkit provides facts about emergency contraception for rape survivors, tools and strategies to assess the need for increased access, and four strategies to increase access. The four strategies discussed are legislation, administrative efforts, litigation and voluntary efforts. Samples, survivor stories and additional resources are also included."
Preventing violence and reducing its impact: How development agencies can help (pdf)
This document makes the case for increased attention on the impact of violence on development by international development agencies. A key aim is to stimulate dialogue on the role of international development agencies in the prevention of violence globally, and ultimately to increase investment in a commonly agreed set of applied violence prevention strategies. The primary audience for this document is policy-makers, high-level planners, and others in the international development field.
Programming to Address Violence against Women (pdf)
"This is the second volume in a series that focuses on prevention and response tools for violence against women. The publication features eight case studies that highlight initiatives that have proven successful in combating violence against women: Algeria, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. The UNFPA hopes to support current efforts in the eight case study countries and encourage other countries to take steps toward ending violence against women."
Prosecuting Alcohol-Facilitated Sexual Assault
"This monograph discusses the prosecution of alcohol-facilitated sexual assault (AFSA) with a specific focus on AFSA when the victim is voluntarily intoxicated."
Prosecuting Conflict-Related Sexual Violence at the International Criminal Court (pdf)
"The report assesses the effectiveness of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in reducing acts of sexual violence in armed conflict. The report explores whether the existence of the ICC acts as a deterrent for gender-based violence in conflict situations, and whether perpetrators of sexual violence can be brought to justice under provisions of the Rome Statute specifically addressing gender violence. The report also offers recommendations for improving the ICC’s ability to actually and symbolically reduce violence against women by characterizing gender-based violence in conflict situations as an international war crime."
Prostitution of Children and Child-Sex Tourism: An Analysis of Domestic and International Responses (pdf)
"This paper addresses both domestic and international responses to the prostitution of children within the United States and abroad. The author highlights policy and practice issues regarding the legal system and social-service responses to prostituted children."
Rapid Assessment Tool for Sexual & Reproductive Health and HIV Linkages (pdf)
This adaptable tool can be used to assess linkages betweeen HIV and sexual and reproductive health at the policy, systems and service-delivery levels. It is intended also to identify gaps and ultimately to contribute to the development of country-specific action plans to forge and strengthen these linkages.
"Focused on the farming industry, the bulletin describes the risk factors for sexual violence for migrant workers, barriers to reporting, legal rights and advocacy strategies."
Report Cards on Teen Dating Violence 2008 (pdf)
Break the Cycle issued the first-ever state-by-state report cards evaluating the level of legal protection each state offers young victims of domestic and dating violence. The report was issued in conjunction with National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Week, February 4-8, 2008.
Report of the Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants (pdf)
The author points out that female children are extremely vulnerable to gender-based violence during migration. Migration is often difficult and dangerous for female children due to “additional restrictions on travel” girls may face due to “male guardianships.” Female children are also vulnerable to human trafficking for sexual exploitation or forced labor during migration. The report concludes with recommendations for policy improvements on migration legislation.
Report on Research on Rape and Violence (pdf)
"This report is a compendium of research on issues related to rape, sexual assault, and violence. While efforts have been made to include research from as many sources as possible, it is inevitable that other valuable sources of research may contain information no included in this report."
Researching Violence Against Women: A Practical Guide for Researchers and Activists
An in depth look at the issue of violence against women as a health issue and suggests tools for using research and developing data assessing this issue.
Resource Guide for Advocates & Attorneys on Interpretation Services for Domestic Violence Victims (pdf)
This document provides guidelines from the Interpretation Technical Assistance and Resource Center that focus on court interpretation for domestic and sexual violence victims with limited English proficiency. These guidelines inform how advocacy, interpretation, and language access can be integrated.
Resources Addressing the Perpetration of Sexual Violence
"This special collection provides resources that address the topics of sex offender risk, assessment, management, treatment, and supervision. In addition, there is a special focus on the policies that have been created in the past decade to help keep our communities safer."
Ruling Offers a New Protection to Victims of Assault in Minnesota (USA)
The Minnesota Supreme Court published a ruling that an individual may now be charged with the serious crime of burglary if they enter their former partner's home to commit a crime, even if they have an ownership interest in the home. This ruling provides a new type of protection for victims who do not have an active order for protection against former partners.
San Diego County Sexual Assault Response Team Standards of Practice (pdf)
"This manual provides extensive standards of practice for members of interdisciplinary sexual assault response teams. "
Security Council Resolution 1820 on Women, Peace, and Security (pdf)
This is the text of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1820 which confronts sexual violence in situations of armed conflict. Recognized by this resolution is that the maintenance of international peace and security is not possible with the widespread and systematic use of sexual violence as an instrument of conflict. With this resolution the SC is committed to considering appropriate steps to end such atrocities, punishing perpetrators, and requesting a report from the Secretary General on situations in which sexual violence is being widely or systematically employed against civilians and on strategies for ending the practice.
The link above is to the English version of the resolution. Over 100 other translations can be found here.
Self Assessment Form for Forensic Compliance (word)
A self-assessment tool for communities to evaluate their current practices with respect to medical forensic examinations.
Sex Offender Management Policy in the States: Strengthening Policy and Practice Final Report (pdf)
"This report provides a review of innovative policy options for the management of sexual offenders."
Sex Offenses and Offenders: An Analysis of Data on Rape and Sexual Assault
This report draws on more than two dozen statistical datasets maintained by the Bureau of Justice Statistics and the Uniform Crime Reporting program of the FBI to provide a comprehensive overview of current knowledge about the incidence and prevalence of violent victimization by sexual assault, the response of the justice system to such crimes, and the characteristics of those who prey on victims of all ages by committing sexual assault or rape.
Sex Trafficking Needs Assessment for the State of Minnesota
This 2008 report, focuses on trafficking for commercial sex exploitation and prostitution, highlights successes in combating sex trafficking and suggests ways to improve responses to this complex problem in Minnesota.
This book provides Michigan's criminal sexual conduct offenses, research findings on offenders, community resources for victims, special courtroom procedures and other useful resources for legal practitioners.
Sexual Assault Civil Protection Orders by State (pdf)
A chart that lists sexual assault civil protection orders (CPOs) by state.
Sexual Assault in Indian Country: Confronting Sexual Violence (pdf)
This document highlights certain types of sexual assault evidence and presents it within the historical treatment of native populations, jurisdictional problems and prevalence of violence.
Presents findings from the National Incident-Based Reporting System regarding sexual assault, especially young children.
Shattered Lives: Immediate medical care for victims of sexual violence (pdf)
A recently released report depicting the experiences of victims of sexual violence, as well as those who provide immediate care to victims. The report focuses on the individual stories of those who have been sexually assaulted, and those who provide medical, counseling, and other types of support services to victims. Through these stories,the organization hopes to convey the importance of making emergency medical and other services immediately and readily accessible to victims.
Silence is Violence: End the Abuse of Women in Afghanistan (pdf)
A new United Nations (UN) report on women in Afghanistan that focuses on the growing trend of violence and threats against women in public life and rape/sexual violence. The report concludes that these forms of violence are a huge occurrence in the everyday lives of Afghan women and the government has a crucial role in helping to eradicate these harmful practices towards women.
Sisters Speak Out: The Lives and Needs of Prostituted Women in Chicago (pdf)
This report provides information from interviews with 222 women in prostitution in the Chicago metropolitan area, reflecting their experiences with violence from customers, managers, pimps, and police, substance abuse, homelessness, and physical and mental health problems. The women were located and interviewed by prostitution survivors familiar with the prostitution industry.
Spousal Rape Laws 20 Years Later (pdf)
Report that discusses the history of the spousal rape laws and what is recognized now.
"These Standards are presented as aspirational guidelines for the operation of legal service providers, pro bono legal service providers, and individual lawyers representing victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking in civil protection order cases."
State Court Processing of Domestic Violence Cases
"Report on a study comparing domestic violence and non-domestic violence sexual and aggravated assault cases filed in state courts of 15 large urban counties during May 2002 on 11 prosecution, conviction and sentencing outcome measures."
State Legislators: Handbook for Statutory Rape Issues
This handbook is designed to help State legislators develop effective and enforceable statutory rape laws that can and will be used to prosecute offenders and prevent occurrences of the crime.
Statutory Rape Known to Law Enforcement
The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)presents this four-page Bulletin, which draws on the FBI's National Incident-Based Reporting System to provide a comprehensive view of statutory rape. Deriving its data from reports from law enforcement agencies in 21 states for the period 1996 to 2000, the Bulletin characterizes victim and offender attributes and law enforcement responses to incidents of statutory rape.
Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy (pdf)
"This article discusses the results of a study and concludes that substance abuse treatment programs should incorporate violence exposure questions into clinical use as a matter of policy."
Task Force Report on Care for Victims of Sexual Assault (pdf)
This report presents the findings of a 90-day review of all sexual assault policies and programs among the Services and Department of Defense. The report identifies 35 key findings relevant to current sexual assault policies and proposes nine broad recommendations for immediate, near-term and long-term corrective action. It recommends changes to increase prevention, promote reporting, enhance the quality and support provided to victims, especially within combat, and improve accountability for offender actions.
Teen Dating Violence: A Review of Risk Factors and Prevention Efforts (pdf)
This article provides a critical review of the dating violence literature with respect to potential risk factors for both perpetrators and victims and examines the empirical research regarding the effectiveness of prevention and intervention programs targeting teen dating violence. The document also provides recommendations for future research and potential policy implications.
Template Materials for Anonymous Reporting Protocol
These template materials are designed to help communities implement a multidisciplinary protocol for victims to anonymously report their sexual assault to law enforcement.
Testing Justice The Rape Kit Backlog in Los Angeles City and County (pdf)
"A March 2009 report from Human Rights Watch revealed that 12,669 rape kits containing DNA and other evidence of rapes remain untested in the city and county of Los Angeles, California. The report highlights the nature and scope of the backlog, consequences of untested kits, and responses from professionals."
This new study commissioned by NCEA highlights data sources on elder abuse in the health care, long term care, criminal justice, fiduciary, and legal services arenas, beyond adult protective services data. Such data are required as a basis for informed and enlightened social policy on the prevention and treatment of elder abuse.
The Effectiveness of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Programs
This VAWnet document provides a brief summary of the structure and functions of SANE programs as they currently exist in the United States and presents the current research on the effectiveness of SANE programs in three areas: 1) providing care in an empowering setting that addresses survivors’ emotional and medical needs 2) improving the quality of forensic evidence collection relative to the methods traditionally used in hospital emergency departments 3) increasing prosecution rates in their community, due to the meticulous documenting of injuries and physical evidence.
"This national survey of youth, ages 10 to 17, and their caretakers has several implications for the current debate about young people and Internet pornography. Twenty five percent of youth had unwanted exposure to sexual pictures on the Internet in the past year, challenging the prevalent assumption that the problem is primarily about young people motivated to actively seek out pornography. Most youth had no negative reactions to their unwanted exposure, but one quarter said they were very or extremely upset, suggesting a priority need for more research on and interventions directed toward such negative effects. The authors urge that social scientific research be undertaken to inform this highly contentious public policy controversy."
The Facts about Sexual Violence
This fact sheet provides current information and statistics on sexual violence. Information includes a working definition, explanation of different forms of sexual violence and legal protections for victims of sexual violence.
The History of the Violence Against Women Act
Simple timeline of the events and activities leading up to, and since (to 2009), the introduction of the Violence Against Women Act.
The Hofstede Committee Report: Juvenile Prostitution in Minnesota (pdf)
This report provides an overview of juvenile prostitution, the sex industry in Minnesota, and efforts to end juvenile prostitution. This report also recommends tougher penalties for people who exploit children and teenagers.
The Impact of Hate Violence on Victims: Emotional and Behavioral Responses to Attacks
From Social Work, May 1994, pp. 247-251, posted by the National Asssociation of Social Workers. This study explored the nature of hate attacks and victims' responses to them. The sample consisted of 59 victims and included black, white, and Southeast Asian people. Data were obtained through focus group meetings, individual interviews, and questionnaires. More than half of the victims reported experiencing a series of attacks rather than a single attack. Anger, fear, and sadness were the emotional responses most frequently reported by victims. About one-third of the victims reported behavioral responses such as moving from the neighborhood or purchasing a gun. The responses of hate violence victims were similar to those of victims of other types of personal crime. Implications for social work intervention are discussed.
The Response to Sexual Assault: Removing Barriers to Services and Justice (pdf)
Recommendations about best practices (addressing a change in policy, protocol, or response) and legislative or fiscal change in Michigan's services for survivors of sexual assault. 2001 Report.
The Role of the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner in the Prosecution of Domestic Violence Cases (pdf)
"This document examines the basic components of the domestic violence medico-legal examination; the potential for using findings from the medico-legal examination in prosecutions; and the role of the prosecutor and other Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) members in expanding forensic nursing programs to include care of the domestic violence victim."
The Sexual Victimization of College Women (pdf)
Women attending colleges are at greater risk for rape and other forms of sexual assault than the general population or in another comparable age group. The study found that many women do not characterize their sexual victimization as a crime for a number of reasons including blaming themselves.The study reinforces the importance of many organizations’ efforts to improve education and knowledge about sexual assault.
The State of the World's Children 2009 Report
"The State of the World's Children 2009 examines critical issues in maternal and newborn health, underscoring the need to establish a comprehensive continuum of care for mothers, newborns and children. The report outlines the latest paradigms in health programming and policies for mothers and newborns, and explores policies, programmes and partnerships aimed at improving maternal and neonatal health. Africa and Asia are a key focus for this report, which complements the previous year's issue on child survival."
The Use of Expert Witnesses in Cases Involving Sexual Assault
This Violence Against Women Online Resources commissioned document summarizes the existing knowledge on the use of expert witnesses in cases involving sexual assault. The author uses both published literature and contributions provided by numerous experts in the field to discuss the use of expert testimony, the general dynamics of sexual assault, and common reactions of victims in the prosecution of criminal sexual assault cases. Specific information on who, what, when and how to use expert witnesses, along with the effects of expert witnesses on jurors is provided.
The Use of Truth-Telling Devices in Sexual Assault Investigations (pdf)
"This guide examines the use of polygraph tests and other truth-telling devices (sometimes called “lie-detector tests”) in sexual assault investigations. This guide examines special issues relevant to using truth-telling devices with sexual assault victims. Legislative and judicial actions that have been taken as a result of this debate will also be discussed. Victim advocates, law enforcement officers, and policy makers may use this guide to develop policies, practices, and procedures and to improve collaborations regarding the use of truth-telling devices as the VAWA 2005 provision is adopted across the United States."
The Uses And Impacts Of Medico-Legal Evidence In Sexual Assault Cases: A Global Review
"The review outlines the historical and contemporary medico-legal responses to sexual assault victims, broadly describing the professionals, protocols and procedures involved in the collection and processing of medico-legal evidence."
The VAWA Manual: Immigration Relief for Abused Immigrants (pdf)
Manual on the preparation, filing and processing of applications pursuant to the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Also includes detailed information on Special Immigrant Juvenile Status for Children Under Juvenile Court Jurisdiction, and U and T Non-Immigrant Visas (Victims of Crime and Trafficking). A good resource for advocates and legal professionals working with these victims.
This document takes some time to download, especially with a slow connection.
The VAWA Manual: Immigration Relief for Abused Immigrants, Index of Appendices 1-100 (pdf)
Contains a list of appendices in connection with The VAWA Manual: Immigration Relief for Abused Immigrants.
The VAWA Manual: Immigration Relief for Abused Immigrants, Index of Appendices 101-200 (pdf)
Contains a list of appendices in connection with The VAWA Manual: Immigration Relief for Abused Immigrants.
The VAWA Manual: Immigration Relief for Abused Immigrants, Index of Appendices 201-300 (pdf)
Contains a list of appendices in connection with The VAWA Manual: Immigration Relief for Abused Immigrants.
The VAWA Manual: Immigration Relief for Abused Immigrants, Index of Appendices 301-380 (pdf)
Contains a list of appendices in connection with The VAWA Manual: Immigration Relief for Abused Immigrants.
This document is a historical examination of the first ten years of the Violence Against Women Act, with an emphasis on current gaps in public policy related to sexual violence. The paper provides policy recommendations for strengthening the Act's response to victims of sexual violence, including core services for victims.
Together We Must! End Violence against Women and Girls and HIV & AIDS (pdf)
"This document represents an initial effort to draw attention to the knowledge, institutional capacity and resources needed to comprehensively address the intersection between HIV & AIDS and VAWG. The aim is to stimulate debate and collaboration among practitioners and advocates around how to identify and promote effective prevention policies and practices that can be adapted to various contexts."
Trafficking and Forced Prostitution of Palestinian Women and Girls: Forms of Modern Day Slavery
"The first, in-depth study of its kind within the region that digs deeper to unravel the layers of this type of abuse. The paper analyzes six case studies — two on fathers selling their daughters, three on traffickers and one on a woman working in prostitution. It assesses and measures the extent of women trafficking in the Palestinian region in order to call on civil society organizations and Palestinian governmental institutions to take urgent and concrete actions against this human rights violation."
Trafficking in Persons Report 2009 (pdf)
"The ninth annual report seeks to increase global awareness of the human trafficking phenomenon by shedding new light on various facets of the problem and highlighting shared and individual efforts of the international community, and to encourage foreign governments to take effective action against all forms of trafficking in persons."
Trafficking in Women: Moldova and Ukraine (pdf)
This document explores the trafficking of women for the commercial sex industry as a human rights violation in both Moldova and Ukraine. The report analyzes the mechanisms of trafficking in both countries and the NGO and governmental response to the problem, including information on Moldovan and Ukrainian law. The report also addresses the obligations of the Moldovan and Ukrainian government under international law. 2000
Health care professionals and others have asked whether routine notification of advocates violates the privacy protections outlined in HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996). This bulletin seeks to respond to this important question with the input of experts, legal information and recommendations.
"This policy brief presents the distilled research and critical thinking of a diverse group of local and national experts in the field of child sexual abuse and exploitation. Via candid dialog and interviews, these leaders developed and prioritized primary prevention strategies, analyzed environmental factors and norms that perpetuate these problems, and outlined policies and practices for transforming our communities and our nation during these turbulent political and economic times."
Turning the Tide: CEDAW and the Gender Dimensions of HIV/AIDS Pandemic
This publication discusses different aspects of the HIV/AIDS pandemic for which CEDAW has special relevance. For example, gender-based violence and sexual exploitation, access to health services, gender inequality and safer sex, and issues of care and care-giving.
Understanding DNA Evidence: A Guide for Victim Service Providers
"Forensic DNA technology is revolutionizing the way law enforcement officers investigate violent crimes, including crime scene investigation, counseling rape victims to not wash away critical evidence, accurate conviction of offenders, and connecting offenders to other brutal crimes. This 12-page document examines the uses of DNA, evidence collection and preservation, testing methods and interpretation of test results and post conviction for DNA testing. A glossary of terms and a reference / resource list are also included. "
UNIFEM Annual Report 2004/2005 (pdf)
The Annual Report documents UNIFEM's work to foster women's empowerment and gender equality around the world. It highlights some of the organization's initiatives during the year 2004–2005, among which were initiatives in promoting women's political participation and leadership in post-conflict situations, easing the burden of HIV/AIDS on women, promoting women's right to own land, and supporting the creation and implementation of gender-responsive budgets.
UNiTE to End Violence against Women: The Framework for Action (pdf)
"The overall objective is raising public awareness and increasing political will and resources for preventing and responding to all forms of violence against women and girls – in all parts of the world. The Framework for Action provides an overall “umbrella” for the efforts to be undertaken at global, regional, national and local levels. It identifies five key outcomes as benchmarks for the Campaign, to be achieved in all countries by 2015, and outlines a UN Programme of Activities and expected Outputs."
Victims' Economic Security and Safety Act (pdf)
VESSA provides unpaid leave, eligibility for unemployment insurance, and protection from employment and insurance discrimination for victims of domestic and sexual violence.
Violence Against Native Women: A Guide for Practitioner Action (pdf)
This paper is intended to serve as a guide to practitioners who represent Native women who are the victims of domestic and sexual violence. It is dedicated to the brave Native women whose faces are behind the horrifying statistics. Includes practice tips for law enforcement, tribal leaders, judges, advocates, attorneys, prosecutors, and probation/parole officers.
Violence Against Women in Vietnam (pdf)
This report was prepared for the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The report draws attention to the lack of ways for the victims of violence obtain reparation and identify the mechanisms guaranteeing the impunity of torturers.
"Compiles some U.S. BJS and FBI data on violence between people who have an intimate relationship: spouses, ex-spouses, and current and former boyfriends and girlfriends. Includes violent crimes of murder, rape, sexual assault, and simple assault."
Violence in Families: Assessing Prevention and Treatment Programs
This is a full-text online book made available courtesy of The National Academies Press. This important book, published in 1998, details out chapter by chapter the different types of interventions to be utilized by different types of professionals, as well as makes recommendations.
Violence, Pregnancy and Abortion: Issues of Women's Rights and Public Health (pdf)
The second edition of this monograph reviews worldwide data on the the relationship between violence, pregnancy and abortion and suggests measures different sectors of society can take to reduce the suffering of women and girls, and to ensure their basic human right to be free from violence.
"This bulletin provides information on how advocates can assist survivors of sexual violence to connect with larger communities and have a larger voice in the policy decisions that impact their lives. "
This article is Part I of a two-part series addressing two types of victim privacy laws – confidentiality and privilege. Part I provides an overview of confidentiality laws in order to assist prosecutors in effectively balancing offender accountability with the safety needs and expectations of victims during criminal investigations and prosecutions. Part
II of the series provides a discussion of common privileges and the scenarios in which conflicts with these privileges may arise. Part II also provides prosecutors with strategies to protect privileges when the privacy interests of victims might outweigh the need to disclose privileged information.
Link to Part II Here
This article is Part II of a two-part series addressing two types of victim privacy laws – confidentiality and privilege. Part I provides an overview of confidentiality laws in order to assist prosecutors in effectively balancing offender accountability with the safety needs and expectations of victims during criminal investigations and prosecutions. Part
II of the series provides a discussion of common privileges and the scenarios in which conflicts with these privileges may arise. Part II also provides prosecutors with strategies to protect privileges when the privacy interests of victims might outweigh the need to disclose privileged information.
Link to Part I Here
What College Men Should Know About Sexual Assault, Rape and Sexual Battery (pdf)
The San Diego Police Department created brochures for college men and women, in cooperation with Rana Sampson of Community Policing Associates. The brochures present various scenarios and then pose the question, "Is it rape?" Clear answers are provided for each scenario, based on California state laws. The brochure for men lists specific penalties they could face if they get one answer wrong. The materials can be useful in engaging students in dialogue, comparing their perceptions of what rape is against the legal system.
What College Women Should Know About Sexual Assault, Rape and Sexual Battery (pdf)
"The San Diego Police Department created brochures for college men and women, in cooperation with Rana Sampson of Community Policing Associates. The brochures present various scenarios and then pose the question, "Is it rape?" Clear answers are provided for each scenario, based on California state laws. The brochure for men lists specific penalties they could face if they get one answer wrong. The materials can be useful in engaging students in dialogue, comparing their perceptions of what rape is against the legal system. "
With an End in Sight (pdf)
"With an End in Sight" narrates inspiring stories showing how groups of people are moving ahead and creating new ideas to combat violence against women. It provides knowledge, insight and hope of how violence against women can be eliminated with combined effort, compelling advocacy, and wide-reaching education.
Women and Health: Today’s Evidence, Tomorrow’s Agenda (pdf)
"This report reviews evidence on the health issues that particularly affect girls and women throughout their life course. This report uses currently available data to draw attention to the consequences and costs of failing to address health issues at appropriate points in their lives."
This study was developed to inform programming and advocacy within the context of UNIFEM programming, and builds on country-level visits conducted in early 2007. The study looks at five areas of intervention: peacebuilding and conflict resolution initiatives, reconciliation mechanisms, increasing access to justice, access to support services, and conflict monitoring systems. These sections examine the barriers women face and highlights examples of women’s successful engagement in peacebuilding at the community level.
Women in Mongolia: Mapping Progress under Transition
This publication tells of Mongolian women's experiences in the context of the political and economic transformation of their country. It shares reports of women encouraged to bear many children, inadequate health care or resources, and high rates of maternal mortality. Recommendations informed through case studies are presented for improving their social and economic status and increasing their political participation.
Women's Human Rights: A Fact Sheet (pdf)
This factsheet outlines women's human rights violations and the obligation states have to protect those rights.
Working to End Violence Against Women in Brazil
"This VAWnet special collection highlights and celebrates the tremendous work being done in Brazil to end violence against women. The selected materials and resources provide a snapshot of the magnitude of the problem and highlight various recommendations for public policy as well as opportunities for community involvement and action."
Zero Tolerance: Stop the Violence Against Women and Children, Stop HIV/AIDS (pdf)
Violence is linked to HIV. Women who have experienced violence may be up to three times more likely to acquire HIV. In addition to behavioral risk factors, there are direct consequences of unprotected forced or coerced sex, and this is compounded by global HIV/AIDS policies that fail to take seriously the realities facing women and girls. Fear of violence can prevent women from seeking VCT, disclosing their serostatus, and receiving treatment when it is needed.