RCNI Press Release 16 August 2004

False reporting myths betray victims of rape

The Rape Crisis Network Ireland are concerned that the Fair City story of a false allegation of rape may reinforce a dangerous myth. Myths about false allegations of rape empower rapists and make us all more vulnerable. Irish research shows 40% believe rape accusations are often false.

Fair City has seen Kylie reporting Mundo for rape in what we know to be a lie forced from her by her violent father. This is a powerful story about domestic violence and the abuse Kylie is suffering under her father. However, when she lies about being raped this supports the myth that women often lie about rape.

What we know is that popular myths about women lying about being raped far outweigh the actual numbers of false allegations. It cannot be denied that false allegations of rape do occur but it is important not to exaggerate these. To the best of our knowledge people only lie about rape in less than 2% of cases. Do a quick poll in any pub in Ireland and you will find that 40% believe rape accusations are often lies.

It is natural that we want to shy away from the reality that in Ireland today 20% of adult women have been raped (SAVI report). However, our denial of these realities about rape means that when a women reports a rape we need to think that it may be because she regretted or was ashamed of her behaviour not because she was actually raped. Unfortunately, the more vulnerable the person the more likely we are to doubt them - was she very drunk, was she 16, was she disabled, was she mentally ill?

If we don’t start believing women when they say they were raped then all too many of us will be hearing the words, ‘I wouldn’t bother telling anyone, it’s your word against mine - no one will believe you’.

Notes:
• The RCNI is the national forum of Rape Crisis Centres, which provides a strong voice for survivors and is a catalyst for social change to end rape and all forms of sexual violence.
• Dr. Stephanie O’Keeffe's recent research showed that “many Gardai believe that most or the majority of women make false rape reports”, leading to 60% of gardai seeking to establish the truth of the allegation rather than prioritising evidence gathering.

For information contact Cliona Saidlear 087 2196447
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