Women who travel, or want to travel, are constantly forced to reconcile the safety of their bodies with their right and desire to see and experience the world. As discerning and smart as we try to be, bad situations and terrible consequences can happen to anyone, even without international travel involved. In the horrific event that anyone should live through the nightmare of a sexual assault, and have the trauma exacerbated by being in a foreign place, there are resources, information and contacts that may assist one through this painful ordeal.
1. Know that there is no one universal definition of sexual assault
Unfortunately, all countries do not treat violent sexual crimes, or violent crimes against women with the same gravity. Furthermore, there are countries that define sex crimes as gender specific, as a man against a woman. This can not only complicate matters for trans victims, but some definitions (or lack of legislation) can make a woman more vulnerable if she reports the crime.
2. Find a place you feel safe and someone you can talk to
Resist the impulse to sit alone in your hotel room. Talking to someone straight away can provide you with support to seek help and sort through painful emotions. If you are traveling alone and have no one in country with whom you feel comfortable, make a call home. Even if times zones make it more difficult to get a hold of a loved one, don’t be tentative to get support from people who will want to provide it.
3. Seek medical attention
Your health and safety is the most important thing to worry about after a sexual assault. If you tell the nurse you have been raped or sexually assaulted, he or she will contact the authorities with your permission.
If you choose to report the assault to authorities, forensic evidence will assist in the investigation. Although it may be difficult, more evidence will be available if you do not change or bathe before seeking medical attention.
If you are unsure as to what services are available to you, you can contact the State Department 24 hours a day. Someone can help navigate interaction with local authorities as well as where to go for medical assistance. http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html to find the number for the U.S. Embassy near you or call 202-647-4444 to reach the State Dept. directly.
If you’re not sure what to say or where to begin, explain, “I am a U.S. citizen and I have been a victim of a sexual assault in (country).” A representative will then ask you questions in order to provide you with assistance.
4. If you choose to file a police report
Please find someone you trust to support you through this process. Assault can make you feel powerless, and it’s important to make decisions that are right for you. Again, contacting the State Department can assist you in dealing with local authorities. In many countries, you may be required to file the police report before you leave the country, as an investigation will not be opened after you leave.
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