The Canadian Victims Bill of Rights Turns 10
Today, we celebrate a pivotal moment in Canadian justice, the 10th anniversary of the coming into force of the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights (CVBR). The CVBR was created with the goal of transforming the justice system to be more inclusive, respectful and supportive of victims. As we mark this anniversary, I call on stakeholders to recommit to this vision and be the catalyst for renewed action to improve victim rights.
Our Office is preparing a 10-year progress report on the CVBR and launching a series of infographics designed to raise awareness, promote accountability, and empower victims and survivors.
The first infographic is a practical list of questions to help victims and survivors navigate the Canadian justice system.
The remaining infographics focus on each of the core rights of the CVBR, illustrating the reality faced by victims and survivors, and outlining what must be done to ensure victim rights are meaningfully enforced:
- the right to information
- the right to protection
- the right to participation
- the right to restitution
- the right to file a complaint
The 10-year progress report reflects on a decade of implementation, highlighting improvements to victim rights in the criminal justice system and the work that remains to be done to ensure victim rights are fully realized and enforceable, particularly for those facing systemic barriers due to intersecting identities such as race, gender, disability, and socio-economic status.
We remain committed to help shape a justice system that listens to, respects, and upholds the rights of victims and survivors.
Dr. Benjamin Roebuck
Federal Ombudsperson for Victims of Crime
