26th May 2026
SAMAJ recommends that governments, justice sector institutions and other stakeholders strengthen compensation systems to ensure they function as a meaningful pathway to justice for victims/survivors of sexual violence.
Key priorities include:
- Reduce dependency on criminal convictions: Establish and resource national victim compensation funds so survivors can access compensation independent of conviction outcomes.
- Introduce interim compensation mechanisms: Provide immediate financial assistance for medical, psychosocial and livelihood needs to support survivors during the investigation and trial.
- Strengthen the enforcement of court-ordered fines: Improve mechanisms to collect fines and ensure timely disbursement, supported by transparent monitoring systems.
- Operationalise clear and consistent administrative frameworks: Standardise guidelines, timelines and eligibility criteria to reduce delays and inconsistencies across jurisdictions.
- Improve accessibility and outreach: Ensure compensation systems are accessible to marginalised survivors and respond adequately to their needs, including through targeted outreach, local language information and accessible formats.
- Adopt survivor-centred and integrated approaches: Ensure holistic provision of compensation with legal aid, psychosocial support, rehabilitation and protection services.
- Develop reparations frameworks for conflict-related sexual violence: Establish mechanisms to ensure survivors of conflict-related sexual violence can access compensation and broader reparative support.
- Strengthen the capacity of justice sector actors: Provide training for police, prosecutors and judges on compensation procedures and survivor-centred approaches.