Identifying the Needs of Stalking Victims and the Responsiveness of the Criminal Justice System: A Qualitative Study in Belgium and the Netherlands

Abstract

Abstract This study aims to explore what procedural and distributive needs stalking victims require in their contact with the criminal justice system and whether the criminal justice system is responsive to their needs. During 45 in-depth interviews, Belgian and Dutch stalking victims reported a need for proper treatment, immediate safety, information, and outcomes such as arrest and punishment. The additional needs of having one contact person for a proper registration of their case, and of the possibility not to prosecute the stalker were also mentioned. The criminal justice system was sometimes found to be unresponsive to these needs.