Online Guides from OVC: Resource Guide for Serving U.S. Citizens Victimized Abroad

Publication Date: April 2008

Victim Services: An International Outlook

Responding to Victimization Abroad

Coordinating Victim Services

If the Victim Remains Abroad

If the Victim Returns to the United States

International Terrorism

Crime Victim Compensation

Conclusion

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Victim Assistance Checklists

Special Considerations for Sexual Assault

Encourage victims to obtain medical attention, which can provide evidence for the apprehension and prosecution of the assailant.

Urge the victim to obtain a forensic examination, if appropriate, even if more than 72 hours have passed.

Ask victims about their living situation and ensure that they believe they are now safe.

Be unconditionally supportive of any type of emotional reaction by victims.

Encourage survivors to be supportive of one another.

Offer to help identify a sexual assault crisis counselor.

Discuss possible followup medical care.

Legal definitions of rape and sexual assault vary from country to country. Contact the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services to learn what laws apply.

Resources:

It Happened to Alexa Foundation
www.ithappenedtoalexa.org

National Sexual Violence Resource Center
www.nsvrc.org

Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network
www.rainn.org

National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-4673