Guide for Navigating Sexual Harm Abroad: Resources and Support for Expats and Travelers

Living or traveling abroad opens up a world (quite literally) of new possibilities and experiences. But it also creates unique challenges when facing difficult situations far from home. For survivors of sexual harm, navigating unfamiliar systems, languages, and customs can make accessing support feel overwhelming. Yet no matter where you are in the world, you deserve to find healing.

In this guide, we’ll share tools and resources to help survivors who are traveling or living abroad. From practical care, like crisis hotlines, to therapeutic options and healing communities, there is support available for you, no matter your situation. 

(While this guide focuses on support for those who travel or live abroad by choice, we acknowledge that many face forced displacement and sexual harm related to conflict. Please note that these situations involve additional complexities beyond the scope of this guide.)

Sexual Harm in an International Context

Sexual harm takes on many forms. Whether it's unwanted physical violations, verbal harassment, assault, or rape, these experiences occur without consent and can leave lasting trauma. 

Expatriates (expats) and travelers face unique vulnerabilities when it comes to sexual harm. Risk factors are heightened due to unfamiliarity with local environments and potential language barriers, creating complex obstacles when seeking help. 

Cultural differences create additional barriers. What's considered harassment in one country might be considered taboo in another, leaving you feeling invalidated and unsure where to turn.

It’s common for survivors of sexual harm who are living abroad to feel a type of isolation that is incredibly overwhelming. You can feel caught between two worlds: one where you’re disconnected from the support network back home and another where you’re trying to access local resources.

But there is always hope and help available. Understanding these challenges is the first step toward creating better support systems and prevention strategies. Whether you're planning to travel or currently living abroad, knowing about these risks and available resources can make all the difference.

Immediate Support Resources for Sexual Harm

If you’re traveling or living abroad, know that there are international support and crisis hotlines available for you 24/7. If you can make calls internationally, the National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at: +1-800-656-HOPE (4673). You can also speak with someone directly through a secure online chat at hotline.rainn.org/online.

Another resource is the Americans Overseas Domestic Violence Crisis Center: +1-866-USWOMEN (879-6636). This crisis center is a toll-free international number that can be reached from 175 countries. For comprehensive global support services, visit NO MORE’s Global Directory. This resource provides support service listings in almost every UN-recognized country.

If you are in immediate danger, make sure you know your country’s emergency response phone number. Reporting an incident of sexual harm to local law enforcement can already be a daunting process, but there are steps you can take to advocate for yourself, including:

• Know the location of your nearest embassy or consulate

• Consider having a friend or community member accompany you

• Request an officer trained in handling cases of sexual harm

• Ask for an interpreter if needed (your embassy may be able to help with this)

• Take notes and record key details of your interactions

• Request copies of all documentation

• Ask clear questions about next steps

Ultimately, approach local authorities with as many details as possible about the incident. It’s wise to reach out to your home country’s embassy as they can provide further guidance on the local laws and help you understand what to expect during the reporting process.

Remember, you deserve support and asking for help is an act of courage. Whether you choose to report or simply need to speak with someone, support is available for you. Take each step at your own pace – you got this.

Long-term Support and Counseling for Expats and Travelers

Healing is a journey. There are many paths forward through support and counseling, even when you’re far from home. Living abroad shouldn’t mean you have to compromise on your mental health care.

If you have healthcare abroad, look for qualified mental health professionals who specialize in trauma or sexual harm. The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies has a directory on their website of professionals trained to support survivors.  

Additionally, you can always ask your embassy for recommendations of professionals who work with expats. If local options are limited or you prefer the flexibility of online therapy sessions, consider BetterHelp or Talkspace. These services are particularly beneficial if you struggle with the language or any cultural differences in your new country. 

Healing doesn’t just happen in a therapy session. Community connection also plays a huge role in the healing process. Even if you’re thousands of miles away from home, there are ways you can find a support community.

Many countries have crisis centers that offer services and resources for survivors (both structured and informal groups). NO MORE’s Global Directory can be particularly helpful for finding these groups in your region. Consider virtual support groups as well. Some survivors find comfort in joining expat communities through social media pages, for example.

Ultimately, healing looks different for everyone. It's okay to try different approaches until you find what works for you.

Legal Resources and Advocacy for Expats and Travelers

Similar to knowing the emergency response number and medical services available to you, understanding your rights in the local legal system is important. While legal systems vary across the world, international human rights law prohibits any form of sexual harm. Even in countries where local laws might seem unclear, international standards can help advocate for your rights.

You can also search for local non-profits or legal clinics in your area that specialize in cases involving sexual harm. For instance, many European countries offer free legal aid and representation during criminal proceedings for survivors. You can find out more specific information on the Council of Europe website.

RAINN, Take Back The Night, and Joyful Heart Foundation are more organizations that provide resources and guidance on legal options. They advocate for survivor centered reforms, offer advice on working with law enforcement, and can even connect you with pro bono services.

No matter what path you decide to take in the legal system, you don’t need to navigate it alone. Take time in making these decisions for you. All choices are valid.

Cultural Gaps and Seeking Support Across Borders

Navigating cultural differences as an expat or traveler is another challenge of living abroad. Cultural attitudes around sexual harm vary worldwide, influencing everything from reporting processes to available support services. While this may feel discouraging, remember that your experience is yours, regardless of local customs. 

Before interacting with local authorities or support services, research specific protocols to help build a level of understanding. In some cultures, it may be more acceptable to seek help from a family member or community leader before visiting the local authorities. Your embassy can help provide resources about cultural norms in professional settings or you can ask expat communities members.

Furthermore, language barriers can be one of the most difficult aspects of living or traveling abroad. To help you bridge language gaps, consider using professional translation services or communication tools, such as:

• Embassy interpreters for official proceedings

• Medical interpretation services at hospitals

• Legal translation services for documentations

• Crisis hotlines with multilingual staff

• Bilingual advocacy groups

• Mobile translation apps for basic communication

While cultural awareness is important, it should never prevent you from seeking the support you need. Your right to safety and healing transcends cultural boundaries. 

Self-Care, Connection, and Healing Strategies

Being away from familiar surroundings can feel isolating, but it also offers new opportunities to explore different paths to healing. Take the time to discover what brings you strength and peace in your daily life, whether that’s mindfulness practices, joining a gym, taking a nature walk, or forms of creative expression, such as journaling.

Building a support network, whether it’s in-person or online, is a powerful healing method, especially when far from home. Expat groups, volunteer opportunities, or cultural exchange events are a great way to build local connections. Online communities, like the one here at Our Wave, also offer a safe space to share your experiences and connect with others who understand.

Ultimately, healing is never a straight line. Some days will feel easier than others, and that’s perfectly normal. Your story is yours to tell, and your healing journey is yours to shape.

Your Path Forward and Taking the Next Step

The journey of healing knows no borders. Accessing resources and support as a survivor living abroad can feel daunting without having a full grasp on the local language or customs. But know that your experience matters and that you don’t have to go through the healing process alone. Whatever path you decide to take should be the right path for you. And each step you take toward caring for yourself is an act of courage.

Throughout this guide, we’ve explored many pathways to support, from NGOs, crisis hotlines and legal resources to therapeutic options, self-care practices and online communities. Whether you’re an expat building a new life abroad or an international traveler, you deserve to find the help that resonates with your own situation. There is always hope, no matter how far away from home you may be.