International standards applicable in cases of sexual violence

Equality Now calls on States, justice actors, legislators and civil society across Latin America and the Caribbean to use and apply these international standards to strengthen legal frameworks, ensure survivor-centred responses and end impunity for sexual violence.

• Sexual violence must be legally defined based on the absence of consent
• Discriminatory offences such as estupro must be eliminated
• Survivors must receive continuous protection, free legal assistance and specialised support throughout proceedings.
• Children and adolescents require child-sensitive justice processes that prioritise their best interests and safety.
• Intersectional standards must guide responses for Indigenous, Afro-descendant, migrant women and persons with disabilities.
• Investigations must be timely, impartial and victim-centred.
• Forensic and medical examinations must be conducted with informed consent and safeguards against revictimisation.
• Testimony procedures must avoid repeated questioning and ensure safe, specialised interviewing environments.
• Hearings must be free from gender and racial stereotypes that undermine victims’ credibility.
• Due process guarantees must include reasonable timeframes and prohibit mediation in sexual violence cases.
• Survivors are entitled to full reparations for both material and non-material harm.