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Crime in Russia: Exploring the Link Between Victimisation and Concern About Crime

NCJ Number
199354
Journal
Crime Prevention and Community Safety: An International Journal Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Dated: 2003 Pages: 27-46
Author(s)
Adrian Beck; Annette Robertson
Date Published
2003
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the relationship between victimization and concern about crime among the Russian population.
Abstract
Over the past 10 to 15 years, political, economic, and social transformation has led to unprecedented increases in crime across countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including the countries of the former Soviet Union. Throughout the 1990's, the Russian population consistently rated crime as one of the most serious problems facing the country. This study explored the relationship between concern about crime and victimization in terms of both actual victimization and patterns of victimization. Data form part of a three-year project conducted in three cities: Smolensk, Omsk, and Volgograd. The survey, conducted in 2001, covered a range of issues such as experiences with crime, attitudes toward crime prevention, and dealing with the militia. Results indicate a widespread concern in Russia about crime in general and about specific types of offenses, but this concern varied between different groups of people and for different offenses. They demonstrated a clear but not always consistent link between patterns of criminal victimization and actual victimization experiences, and people’s concerns about crime. While prior victimization had a considerable influence on concern, the high levels expressed by both victims and non-victims alike were better understood within the context of the unprecedented increase in crime and victimization rates in Russia over the past two decades. These rises in crime have been accompanied by increased media coverage, which may have raised public concern. Levels of concern regarding burglary among non-victims were extremely high. Women, people in the 50 to 59 age group, those on low incomes, and those with high educational status were most concerned about crime, all of which (except the 50 to 59 age group) were at greater risk of victimization. Support for crime victims to help them deal with their experiences and safeguard against re-victimization could play an important role in lowering the high levels of concern about crime found among victims. Such support and information should also be disseminated to the public as a whole in order to raise awareness and highlight precautions against crime. 2 figures, 6 tables, 32 notes, 36 references