MAP Statement: The Treatment of Victims of Rape and Sexual Assault

Non-consensual sexual relations or behaviour between adults are never acceptable. Consent can be withdrawn, even if once given.

The inability to provide proper consent can be related to a variety of reasons, depending on a person’s specific circumstances, and it is thus important to not limit oneself to the presence or absence of violence as the sole indicator of rape.

The act of reporting rape requires courage and significant moral strength, and it is vital that this is recognised and respected, including by the authorities entrusted with investigating these allegations; all efforts should be made to comply with available guidelines and local and international protocols and Conventions in order to minimise further additional distress.

People who have reported rape do not do so lightly, and the process and sequelae of reporting may also be highly distressing; to this end, it is ideal that investigative and bureaucratic proceedings be concluded as rapidly as possible.
People who have reported rape are to be treated with dignity, respect and understanding; this helps reduce the retraumatising experience of reporting rape.

Relationships that involve a power differential, are particularly liable to create situations of vulnerability. These may be between employer and employee, between professional and client, service provider and service user, between clergyman and parishioner, between people of high standing in the community and a more anonymous individual, but also myriad others where one person is held in regard, esteem and trust.

It is advisable, as has also been publicly recommended by other bodies, for regular training to be provided to all professionals who are expected to interact with victims of rape, including police officers, legal professionals and the judiciary, and emergency services.

While rape is itself a devastating act of violence, it is a tragedy that the reporting process, and the subsequent investigations, are often extenuating and harrowing experiences for the victims. Every effort needs to be made to facilitate this process, to make it non-judgemental and non-confrontational, and to provide the victims and if necessary, their significant relationships with ongoing support.

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