ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the scale and impact of violent criminal victimisation, the struggle to gain recognition as a victim of crime, the development of victims’ rights, trauma and recovery, and what constitutes a victim-centred perspective. The process of victimisation and recovery can be further complicated by the need to navigate interactions with the criminal justice system, victim service providers, and people within the victims’ social network. Beginning in the 1960s and continuing into the 1970s the growing feminist movement internationally called attention to violence against women including sexual violence and intimate partner violence. In 1972, Quinney posed the now famous question, “Who is the victim?” recognising that victim identities are socially constructed, and that the legal status of being a victim of crime cannot be assumed simply because a crime has occurred; rather it is contingent on the victimisation being taken seriously. A disturbing case from Canada highlights the potential limitations of victims’ rights.
