Beyond Victimhood: Changing the Position and Perspective of Victims in Society
In 2024, Slachtofferhulp Nederland worked on a new narrative about (the position of) victims, to better connect with their experiences and to encourage those around them to offer non judgmental support. Based on the results of this first project, the ambition to change the position and perception of victims in society as a whole has been incorporated into our current Multi-Year Perspective.
The existing image of victims: the more clearly a victim conforms to society’s image of victims, the more they receive recognition and acknowledgement from society. Victims who do not, or less so, conform to this image are more likely to face prejudice, stereotypes and victim blaming. This can hinder their recovery and lead to secondary victimization.
Based on qualitative and quantitative research among victims, Slachtofferhulp Nederland staff and the broader society, a new victim narrative was developed. With this narrative, we intend to reach both society and victims to change perceptions. Slachtofferhulp Nederland is supported in this effort by a strategic consultancy agency.
Through workshops, we inspired and mobilized Slachtofferhulp Nederland staff, the formal justice system and society. On the occasion of the EU Day for Victims of Crime 2025, we organized a webinar on this subject, with over 1.000 participants. The workshops were received with enthusiasm. The need for a new narrative is felt, and there is support for actively promoting it. Several areas within the organization have begun using the narrative in our external communications, including our departments of Communications and Innovation.
We use the narrative to adapt our website texts and develop campaigns.
But more is needed to shift the public perception of victims. We’re looking for the turning point, when society automatically responds to victims without judgment and with respect. When people intervene when someone makes disparaging remarks about a victim. When the media instinctively choose to portray them with empathy and respect their privacy. And when victims themselves feel: I am seen, acknowledged, not questioned about my “authenticity” or “sadness,” but taken seriously for what happened to me. I receive the support I need, from individuals, organizations, and society.
This is a long-term process; it’s about norms becoming entrenched—in language, in reflexes, in choices. The new narrative will only truly take effect when Slachtofferhulp Nederland implements it across all channels (spokespersons, marketing, communication, innovation), in daily contact with clients and external parties, and we also encourage our partners and the media to do the same. In this way, we are working towards a shift in society’s perception of victims. With this project, we are continuing to work towards achieving that tipping point.
