Systemic Investigation - Survivors of sexual assault

Background

The OFOVC launched, on March 11, 2024, a systemic investigation on the experiences of survivors of sexual assault within the Canadian criminal justice system (CJS) to highlight critical shortcomings and drive much needed reforms across the entire system.

Changing the way survivors of sexual assault are treated in Canada’s CJS is critical. These improvements must be guided by the voices of survivors to advocate for victims’ rights and improve their journey through the system.

Survivors of sexual violence & Stakeholders

To those who have ever been subjected to sexual violence in the past, who took the time to share their experiences through our survey, we cannot thank you enough.

To stakeholders who either shared their experiences through our survey and made written submissions, thank you for your time.

Your valuable insight guides our work during the analysis and writing phase of our investigation. 

What was done to date

The OFOVC’s systemic investigation began with 105 individual survivor interviews and conversations with more than 300 stakeholders.

Nearly 40 consultation tables across many different sectors were held from October 2024 to January 2025. Thank you to more than 350 people who participated and offered insight.

We received 1000 responses to our survivor survey, more than 400 responses to our stakeholder survey and over 40 written submissions between November 2024 and March 2025.

An Expert Advisory Circle, chaired by Sunny Marriner, has been convening to support the investigation and ensure voices of survivors remain at the forefront and a diverse range of perspectives and expertise are included, enhancing the effectiveness and inclusivity of our investigative process.