[Peace Corps news] New PCV security legislation introduced

In response to a controversy earlier this year regarding apparent poor handling by the Peace corps of incidents of rape and sexual assault of PCVs, legislation has been introduced by both the federal House of Representatives and the Senate intended to provide better security and protection measures for Volunteers.

According to the National Peace Corps Association, the House legislation would require sexual assault risk-reduction and response training, the development of sexual assault protocol and guidelines, the establishment of victims advocates, and the establishment of a Sexual Assault Advisory Council.

The Senate legislation is "nearly identical," according to the NPCA.

[Peace Corps news] Peace Corps criticized over handling of PCV rape cases

The Peace Corps has been heavily criticized in recent weeks over its treatment of Peace Corps Volunteers who are victims of rape and other forms of sexual assault. A front page article in The New York Times detailed several complaints against the agency's handling of such cases, citing a 'blame the victim' culture.

Hearings were held on the controversy, before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. The National Peace Corps Association, an RCPV advocacy group with which Friends of Guinea is affiliated, live blogged the Congressional hearings and has other information on PCV safety. Those can be found here.