NCJ Number
163865
Date Published
1996
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This report presents findings from a United Nations survey of member states on their use and application of the Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power.
Abstract
The survey focused on victims' access to justice and fair treatment, restitution for victims, victim compensation, victim services, victims of abuse of power, and technical cooperation. Many of the 44 responding countries reported that steps had been taken to implement the main provisions of the Declaration. Positive developments and legislative reforms were part of the overall movement toward recognizing victims' rights, addressing their needs, offering assistance, and providing restitution and compensation, including cases related to abuse of power and the environment. The information received suggests that differences in the judicial traditions, systems, and practices of the responding countries did not prevent an increased number of countries from including in their domestic legislation substantial and procedural provisions designed to improve the position of victims in civil, criminal, and administrative proceedings. Also, steps had been taken in many jurisdictions to facilitate the victim's access to relevant information. Although concern for victims was central in most criminal justice systems, less than one-half of the reporting countries had developed programs or established funds to be used by the victims or by those working in the criminal justice systems to support victims. A number of countries referred to revised laws and new programs to provide services for victims, and almost all the respondents emphasized the importance of technical cooperation and expressed interest in research and other promotional and operational activities to be developed. Based on survey findings, actions for the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice are suggested.