NCJ Number
201275
Date Published
1999
Length
62 pages
Annotation
This document discusses improving the position of victims of crime and abuse of power, and providing them with the necessary assistance and access to justice.
Abstract
Victimization by conventional crime is a social problem that afflicts large parts of the urban population throughout the world. The negative impact of criminal victimization on the well-being of individual citizens and on the cohesiveness of urban communities cannot be overestimated. The United Nations Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power was adopted in the General Assembly in 1985. The Declaration reflects the collective will of the international community to restore the balance between the fundamental rights of suspects and offenders, and the rights and interests of victims. It is based on the philosophy that victims should be adequately recognized and treated with respect for their dignity. Victims are entitled to access to judicial mechanisms and prompt redress for the harm and loss suffered. They are also entitled to receive adequate specialized assistance in dealing with emotional trauma and other problems caused by the victimization. The Declaration sets out areas in which action is needed to ensure equitable treatment for victims. It provides the basic standards against which jurisdictions can assess their own practices and evaluate what changes need to be introduced. It also provides guidance for international cooperation and assistance in this area. The adoption of this international instrument is just a first step towards actual improvements in practice. It must be implemented on the international, regional, national, and local levels. Governments have only just started to recognize the need to make their justice and support systems more accessible to victims. There is probably no jurisdiction where the treatment of victims of crime and abuse of power is fully in accordance with the Declaration. 64 footnotes, 98 references