P030 - Enhancing Understanding of Victimisation Trends: Insights from the Czech National Victimisation Survey

• In Event: Poster Session & Ice Cream Social

Abstract

Victimisation surveys serve as essential tools worldwide, providing unique insights into the hidden aspects of crime and the contextual factors of victimisation. The Czech Republic has a rich tradition of using this research approach. It began with participation in the International Crime Victim Survey (ICVS) in 1992, followed by the implementation of several national-level surveys inspired by the ICVS methodology. Despite this legacy, these surveys have often struggled to provide comprehensive data on crime trends due to their ad hoc nature and varying methodological approaches.Recognising this challenge, the Institute of Criminology and Social Prevention (IKSP) embarked on a significant initiative in 2017: the launch of a revised Czech National Victimisation Survey. The aim of this initiative is to conduct surveys continuously and repeatedly, using a standardised methodology, that allows for meaningful comparisons over time. A new questionnaire, developed by a dedicated research team, builds on previous studies while incorporating innovations tailored to the Czech context.This poster presents findings from two rounds of the survey, conducted in 2017 (N=3328) and 2022 (N=3073). The core victimisation screener focused on respondents' experiences with 12 specific offences over the previous three years. Other issues related to victimisation were also addressed in the questionnaire.In our poster, we will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of general victimisation surveys as vital sources of knowledge on crime rates and related issues. By examining the evolution of the Czech National Victimisation Survey, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of victimisation trends and the broader context of crime in the Czech Republic.

Authors

• Michaela Roubalova, Institute of Criminology and Social Prevention

• Jakub Holas, Institute of Criminology and Social Prevention