With advancing technology, widespread use of the Internet, increased international tourism, and overseas job opportunities, issues of violent crime and mass victimization have become a major concern for agencies that serve victims in the United States and abroad. Moreover, the threat of terrorism against Americans worldwide has increased in recent years. New types of weapons of mass destruction, such as chemical and biological agents, pose significant challenges for those charged with responding to victims of terrorist attacks. To meet the needs of this growing victim service area, OVC funds several initiatives to provide victims with timely, appropriate services and to coordinate assistance among service agencies.

See the box at the right for detailed information about OVC's initiatives in this area.

Conclusion

OVC is committed to developing worldwide capacity for responding to mass violence and terrorism. By quickly making information available to victims of terrorism and other international crimes, OVC empowers individuals to seek out resources and support. This, in turn, creates the best possible conditions for successfully coping with and recovering from events.