The Characteristics of the Institution of Crime Victims According to International Legal Acts

Abstract

Criminal action against the victim is the basis for the universally recognized protection of human rights, strengthened by international instruments, and the neglect of all other rights and freedoms. Criminal action against the victim (crime victim) leads to a violation of the honor and dignity of a citizen, damage to physical and mental health, and breach of fundamental human rights and freedoms. To ensure the restoration of his/her violated rights, a legal mechanism shall be established to actively participate in justice and better protect his/her legitimate interests. Protection of the interests and rights of natural and legal persons affected by crime is declared as one of the main objectives of the state legal system of Georgia. The purpose of the study is to review and analyze international acts and the basic principles and recommendations, the consideration and implementation of which in the national legislation will contribute to the realization of the rights of the victim (victim of crime) and the full protection of his/her legal interests. The legal basis for prioritizing the interests of victims, rights, and freedoms is the acts of international law, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (1950), the International Pact of Civil and Political Rights (1966), Declaration of the Fundamental Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Authority (1985), EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (2000), Framework Decision of 15 March 2001 on the status of victims in criminal proceedings adopted by the Council of the European Union (other legal acts of the European Union and the Council of Europe), Decisions of the European Court of Human Rights.