In a first, a Maldivian court has allowed the victim to give a ‘Victim Impact Statement’.
A ‘Victim Impact Statement’ is a written or oral statement presented to the court during the defendant’s sentencing, allowing crime victims to describe the physical and emotional harm they have suffered and how the crime has affected their lives.
In a first in the Maldives, Hulhumale’ Magistrate Court, has allowed a victim of sexual abuse to give a ‘Victim Impact Statement’.
Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) said Hulhumale’ Magistrate Court sentenced a 54-year-old man to 54 years in prison on April 21, Monday, for sexually abusing a young girl over a prolonged period of time while holding position of authority over the victim.
PGO said the victim submitted an impact statement to the Court via the Office, which comprehensively detailed the impact the sexual abuse had on her life. The statement was delivered at court by Public Prosecutor Almas Mubarik.
Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) said that, in addition to proving the crime, one of their main priorities in cases involving victims is to empower those victims. The practice of Victim Impact statement, as per PGO, is implemented in free democratic societies to empower victims and help them find closure.
“We welcome the Court’s decision to allow the victim’s voice to be heard prior to the sentencing of the defendant, following a guilty verdict, at the request of this Office,” PGO said.
 According to PGO, they are working on shifting towards a victim-centered system in order to facilitate more opportunities for victims within the criminal justice system.  
The identity of the defendant in the case has not been disclosed in order to protect the identity of the victim, as the case involves sexual abuse of an individual who was a minor at that time.