Norms for addressing crime victims' needs pertain to legislation that focuses on defining and ensuring victim rights, promoting programs that assist crime victims, and establishing policies that prevent and reduce victimization. In 1985, the governments of all the nations of the world adopted the resolution of the United Nations General Assembly, which called upon member countries to take the steps necessary to implement the provisions of the Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power. This Declaration defines victims of crime and abuse of power, and specifies that principles of justice require that victims have access to justice and information pertinent to their case, receive reparation and compensation from the state, and receive services that address the harms caused and needs created by their victimization. Significant progress has been made in these areas by affluent governments. This paper cites some examples of this progress. Next steps must include advancement in research, services, and awareness related to crime victims. Action must occur in the arenas of legislation, training and guidelines for key professionals, an expansion of victim-oriented projects, national policies designed to prevent and reduce victimization, and actions that target female and child crime victims. In an effort to promote these efforts, the World Society of Victimology is promoting research in victimology and victim needs, training for victim service providers and victimologists, and leadership in advancing victim advocacy and victim rights. 21 references