Michael O’Connell Secretary-General

History In 1973, Beniamin Mendelshon, Hans von Hentig and Israel Drapkin organised the first International Symposium on Victimology. In 1979, the World Society of Victimology (WSV) was founded. Since then, the WSV has hosted symposia every three years.

WSV’s Role Promote research in victimology & victim needs WSV’s Role Promote research in victimology & victim needs. Foster services for victim service providers and victimologists. Provide education & training. Advocate for victims’ rights.

WSV’s Functions WSV facilitates networking between researchers, service providers, policy makers and advocates for victims across the world. WSV promotes the implementation of the UN Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime & Abuse of Power and other international norms relating to victims and witnesses

WSV’s International Status WSV is recognised as an international non-governmental organisation in consultative status with the UN and the Council of Europe.

WSV’s Affiliated Organisations Argentina, Australia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, El Salvador, Finland, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Nepal, New Zealand, Portugal, Serbia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden & United States.

WSV’s Publications The Victimologist – the offical newsletter International Review on Victimology International Perspectives In Victimology

WSV’s Laureates Honorary Members Hans von Hentig Award Certificates of Appreciation

WSV’s Activities International Symposia Expert Symposia Delegations – UN Commission of Crime Prevention & Criminal Justice and UN Congress on Crime Prevention & Criminal Justice

The Challenge More than one billion people suffer harm as a result of crime every year, while millions more suffer as victims of abuse of power. Their personal losses, injuries and traumas are not adequately understood. Their human rights are too often overlooked, even forgotten.

Some governments have shown some progress; too many have not. In 1985 the UN General Assembly resolved to prevent victimisation and implement the Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime & Abuse of Power. Some governments have shown some progress; too many have not. Action is needed to get: More and better services; Remedies for rights; Training of officials; Research.

Your Challenge Join the WSV Support the WSV mission to advance research, services and awareness for victims. Network with colleagues across the world. Participate in conferences, courses and committees dedicated to the WSV mission.