European Day for Victims of Crime 2023: Date, History, Facts

On February 22 is European Day for Victims of Crime observed. The day is used to raise awareness about pertinent security issues. Approximately 15% of Europeans are assaulted, traumatised, or abused annually. The numbers may pertain to Europe, but we must not forget that these stories also exist within our communities. The problem is exacerbated by a pervasive culture of silence and the frightening belief that these things only occur to “others” and not to us. Today, we recognise and support victims of crime worldwide alongside Europe. The European Day for Victims of Crime provides the impetus necessary to ensure that the justice system does not inflict additional trauma on those who are already suffering.

The background of European Day for Victims of Crime

European Day for Victims of Crime was founded by Victim Support Europe (V.S.E. ), an organisation that commemorates and advocates for the rights of crime victims. Under the umbrella of V.S.E. are 61 victim support organisations from 31 European nations. Together, they advocate for victims of crime, regardless of the victim’s identity or the nature of the crime.

There are an estimated 75 million victims of crime in Europe. Access to justice should be a given, but sadly, it is more of an exception than the rule. Whether in Europe or elsewhere, the structures intended to protect us frequently fail to do so. In the proverbial due process, victims of mental and physical abuse (or both) struggle. Why the law exacerbates their trauma is beyond comprehension. When reporting crimes, fundamental rights are denied to the majority of victims. Moreover, victim shaming is widespread. To the extent that many choose not to come forward. Fear of retaliation paralyses many individuals, preventing them from seeking justice.

The European Day for Crime Victims seeks to change this. Today, the member states of the European Union reaffirm their dedication to justice for all citizens. Everyone has the right to a secure setting in which to report crimes and gain access to justice. The V.S.E. focuses on vulnerable groups, including children, women, youth, and those with disabilities. These groups represent individuals who may face greater challenges in asserting their basic rights. When you have less autonomy, your chances of receiving or seeking assistance are minimal. The V.S.E. hopes to facilitate everyone’s access to the justice system by providing assistance, information, and protection.

5 FACTS ABOUT CRIME AROUND THE WORLD

There are approximately 2,2 million prisoners in the United States, which exceeds 20% of the global prison population.

According to a 2009 report, the annual cost of organised crime in the United Kingdom is approximately $47 billion.

Studies indicate that male prisoners outnumber their female counterparts approximately 21 to 1.

Since the 1400s, the word ‘criminal’ has been used in the English language to describe criminal behaviour, which has existed for thousands of years.

Rustenburg, South Africa, has been identified as the most violent city in Africa, with a roughly 86% crime rate.

EUROPEAN DAY FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME DATES

Year	Date	Day
2023	February 22	Wednesday
2024	February 22	Thursday
2025	February 22	Saturday
2026	February 22	Sunday
2027	February 22	Monday