We must continue to provide support for victims of sexual violence – opinion

These are dark times – marked by war, women and men held captive Hamasunrelenting sirens and countless people displaced from their homes for over a year.

Amidst this confusion, two shocking reports were released on the same day.

First, the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel released its annual report, revealing staggering statistics:

80% of cases are closed without charges being filed.
Most victims were harmed by someone close to them.
Minors and men are underrepresented in reporting, which means the real numbers are likely even higher.

Secondly, the story of a 15-year-old girl attacked by a group of 15 boys came to light. In addition to terrible violence, they threatened her with silence, leaving her isolated and terrified.

These stories leave us gasping for air, overwhelmed by tragedy after tragedy. Yet we must take a deep breath. Because although we may feel helpless, we cannot afford to look away.

Traumatic experiences such as car accidents, violence, and sexual assault are among the many possible causes of PTSD (illustration). (source: PIXABAY)

The required actions are in our hands.

Unlike crises that require government resolutions or political agreements, these tragedies require action from us – parents, specialists and the entire society.

As a society

What conversations do we have with our children – our sons and daughters? If you think that 15 years is too early to talk about respect, consent and responsibility, I encourage you to read the report about the girl from the North. Waiting until they become teenagers is too late. These discussions need to start early and evolve as children grow.

As parents, we cannot dismiss this risk with words like “good kids” or “normative behavior.” These terms are comforting, but dangerous. Even “good kids” can commit acts of sexual violence or get caught up in group dynamics, unable to stand up and say, “This is wrong. I won’t take part in this.”

It is our responsibility to ensure that at critical moments our children have the strength and awareness to choose the right path.

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As professionals in their field

At ELEM, which is under the Ministry of Social Welfare, we run addressing programs sexual violence – supporting both victims and perpetrators. It is clear that victims and their families need ongoing care, sometimes for life, because sexual violence leaves deep and lasting scars.

However, we also need to focus on treating criminals, especially juveniles. Without intervention, these harmful behaviors will continue, leaving more victims in their wake. Effective treatment includes responsibility, confronting one’s actions, and developing empathy for those who have harmed. This work is essential to breaking the cycle of violence.

There is no privilege to be indifferent

We must continue to provide therapeutic support and supporting social dialogue based on responsibility and awareness. This is not an easy task, especially when most cases end without legal consequences. However, outside the criminal justice system, there is a social process taking place – and it is no less critical.

It’s a long and arduous journey, but we must take it – together.

The author is a social worker and head of the trauma unit at ELEM, Youth in Distress in Israel.