To become the victim of a crime is a tragic experience that can cause lasting physical, psychological or financial damage. In the past, crime victims and their family members have not received much help from society. Last December, however, the Diet passed the Basic Law for Crime Victims, which recognizes that victims of crime have a right to receive governmental and legal assistance to overcome their difficulties.
In December the Cabinet will decide on a basic plan to assist crime victims and their families. A government panel of experts has worked out an outline containing specific proposals to be incorporated into the plan. This is a welcome development, but some of the proposed measures require careful consideration.
The committee's report shows that in 2003, 1,237,230 people suffered physical injuries or lost their lives as a result of crime. Its proposals focus on recovery from physical and psychological damage, prevention of psychological damage, recovery of lost property and financial assistance.