Attachments
One of the questions frequently asked to Report the Abuse (RTA), and within the broader humanitarian community, is how we report and respond to incidents of sexual violence – as survivors1. Who do we report to when something goes wrong? What are our options? What do we do if we are being sexually harassed? How do we prove something has happened? Where can we go for help?
This Guidance Note will hopefully begin to help answering some of these questions and concerns, empowering survivors to report their experiences with sexual violence, get accountability, and create safer workplaces for all humanitarian aid workers.
Reporting Sexual Violence – The Broad Strokes
Reporting sexual violence – to one’s organisation, the perpetrator’s organisation, or the local authorities – is an intensely personal decision. There is no right or wrong course of action, and survivors are entitled to change their minds when it is better for their healing process or the safer option. No judgement should be made about a survivor’s choice.
The suggestions outlined in this document are merely that: suggestions. Some survivors will take guidance in the advice; others will find it does not apply to their situation. Some will find pieces to draw from as they make decisions about how to process their experiences with sexual violence.
This document should not to be read as legal or medical advice, but as ideas – written from one survivor to another – much like a friend might give in times of crisis.