New platform for victims of chemical submission

Faced with the worrying increase in cases of chemical submission, a new platform has just been launched to help victims. Managed by the Reference Center on Substance-Facilitated Assaults (CRAFS), this platform offers information, medical and psychological support, and guides victims through their procedures. This initiative is essential to combat this insidious crime that affects many people every year.

What is chemical submission?

Chemical submission refers to the administration of psychoactive substances, such as GHB or benzodiazepines, to a person without their knowledge, in order to make them vulnerable to assaults, often for sexual purposes. Symptoms include memory loss, drowsiness, and sometimes total amnesia of the events. These effects make it difficult to report the attacker, as victims often wake up without clear memories of the assault they suffered.

The profiles of chemical submission victims are varied, of all ages and genders. Psychological consequences, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are common, and guilt often prevents victims from seeking help. Deputy Sandrine Josso, herself a victim of chemical submission, testifies to the impact of this form of violence on her life and the need for appropriate care.

A dedicated platform to support victims

The CRAFS platform (accessible via lecrafs.com) offers victims a secure space to learn about their rights, access psychological support services, and start legal procedures if they wish. Victims can report assault cases there and get guidance for toxicological analyses to prove the presence of substances in their body. This platform is managed by pharmacologists trained in gender-based and sexual violence, ensuring support based on non-judgment and respect for victims.

Why is this platform essential?

The lack of awareness and the difficulty in quickly obtaining help make managing chemical submission cases particularly complex. In France, in 2022, more than 1,900 suspected cases were recorded, and the number continues to rise. This increase in reports reflects greater collective awareness of the problem, but also the need for organized and accessible support.

The CRAFS platform aims to be a resource hub for victims, their loved ones, and healthcare professionals. It also centralizes data on substance-facilitated assaults to improve prevention and authorities’ response to this phenomenon. Meanwhile, associations like #MendorsPas continue their awareness and support work by offering practical advice and organizing information campaigns to prevent and fight chemical submission.

A step towards prevention and awareness

By providing simplified access to resources and comprehensive care, the CRAFS platform marks an important turning point in the fight against violence by chemical submission. It not only meets the immediate needs of victims but also strengthens prevention through a better understanding of the mechanisms of this type of assault.

Whether by raising public awareness, training healthcare professionals, or supporting victims, this initiative represents a significant advance in the fight against this scourge. To get help, consulting the CRAFS platform is a crucial first step towards justice and recovery.