A pioneering step to promote justice and protect victims
In a significant step aimed at strengthening the institutional framework for human rights protection, the Saudi Society for Forensic Medicine will hold its first forum on assessing sexual assault cases next Wednesday. The forum will bring together leading experts and specialists from various medical, legal, and social sectors, with the goal of standardizing procedures and developing integrated policies that ensure the protection of victims and the achievement of swift justice in accordance with best international scientific and professional practices.
General context and national efforts to combat violence
This forum comes within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to develop its legislative and judicial system, in line with the goals of Vision 2030, which places quality of life and the protection of human rights at the heart of its priorities. In recent years, the Kingdom has enacted several important pieces of legislation, such as the Protection from Abuse Law and the Anti-Harassment Law, which have formed a strong legal foundation for addressing all forms of violence. This forum represents a significant step towards translating these laws into standardized and effective practical procedures on the ground, addressing any gaps that may arise from differing practices among relevant authorities.
The forum's objectives and main themes
Dr. Faisal Al-Zubaidi, a forensic medicine consultant, explained that the forum is the first of its kind in the Kingdom, focusing on multidisciplinary medical assessment and policy integration in cases of sexual abuse and assault. Its primary aim is to enhance the efficiency of handling these sensitive cases and ensure the application of the highest standards of justice and transparency. Experts will emphasize the importance of integrating efforts across different disciplines and establishing standardized protocols to prevent procedural conflicts or the loss of rights. They will also highlight the importance of clinical assessment based on precise scientific evidence and robust forensic documentation mechanisms to safeguard evidence from damage or tampering, thus serving the course of justice.
The importance and expected impact of the forum
The significance of this event lies in its anticipated impact on several levels. Locally, the forum will contribute to building a more responsive and effective system, enhancing public trust in judicial and health institutions, and providing professionals with a clear procedural guide. Regionally, this initiative positions the Kingdom as a leader, as its experience can become a model for the region in developing mechanisms for addressing these crimes. Internationally, the forum reflects the Kingdom's commitment to international human rights standards and highlights the positive developments in its social and legal systems.
Comprehensive support for victims and humanitarian care
The discussions will not be limited to procedural and legal aspects, but will also pay special attention to the humanitarian care of victims. Participants will discuss ways to provide comprehensive healthcare, including urgent psychosocial support, as well as specialized mental health treatment programs to help victims overcome the trauma. Medical strategies for preventing sexually transmitted infections will also be presented, along with plans for the clinical management of suspected cases upon arrival at healthcare facilities, and clear reporting and protection pathways that ensure a rapid response and provide safe haven for those affected.
