Scholarlink

This chapter explores the complex and often painful realities of victims of Intimate Image Abuse (IIA) in the UK, focusing on the disconnection between legislative progress and the lived experiences of those impacted. While laws such as the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015, Domestic Abuse Act 2021, and Online Safety Act 2023 have expanded legal protections against image-based sexual abuse, analysis of helpline case data, police outcomes, and criminal justice statistics reveals that only a fraction of victims achieve justice. The chapter foregrounds victim narratives to highlight persistent barriers, including fear of re-traumatization, low prosecution rates, and police inaction. It critiques a justice system that often prioritizes legislative form over practical function and urges a shift towards a more holistic, victim-centred approach that incorporates education, mental health support, rapid content takedown mechanisms, and institutional reform. The Revenge Porn Helpline is recognized as a vital actor, shaping policy and providing essential support, while recent developments such as the Women and Equalities Committee 2025 report underscore the urgent need for consistent enforcement, victim anonymity, and resourced civil remedies.

错误：搜索内容不能为空，请输入英文关键词
错误：关键词超出字数限制，请精简
高级检索

The Victim’s Voice and the Efficacy of Legislation

  • 章节

  • 发表日期：

    2025年

查看全文
  • Sophie Mortimer,
  • Andy Phippen,
  • Emma Bond

摘要

This chapter explores the complex and often painful realities of victims of Intimate Image Abuse (IIA) in the UK, focusing on the disconnection between legislative progress and the lived experiences of those impacted. While laws such as the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015, Domestic Abuse Act 2021, and Online Safety Act 2023 have expanded legal protections against image-based sexual abuse, analysis of helpline case data, police outcomes, and criminal justice statistics reveals that only a fraction of victims achieve justice. The chapter foregrounds victim narratives to highlight persistent barriers, including fear of re-traumatization, low prosecution rates, and police inaction. It critiques a justice system that often prioritizes legislative form over practical function and urges a shift towards a more holistic, victim-centred approach that incorporates education, mental health support, rapid content takedown mechanisms, and institutional reform. The Revenge Porn Helpline is recognized as a vital actor, shaping policy and providing essential support, while recent developments such as the Women and Equalities Committee 2025 report underscore the urgent need for consistent enforcement, victim anonymity, and resourced civil remedies.