Practical tools. Powerful boundaries. Safer fieldwork.
Disclaimer: The resources provided on this website are not exhaustive or definitive. Regulations, reporting protocols, and legal requirements may vary by location and institution. Before conducting fieldwork, confirm current information with your university legal services, ethics or Title IX office, or a qualified legal professional.
If you’re in danger or need urgent care, act now. You control what you share and when. Advocates can help you stay safe, protect your academic standing, and decide if/when to report.
You can seek medical care and support without filing a report. Document what you can (dates, times, locations, messages) only if it feels safe.
When you’re ready to consider reporting, continue to the resources below.
Write down everything you remember as soon as you can—what happened, when, where, and who was present. Even small details can matter later.
If you have texts, emails, photos, or recordings, save and back them up in a secure place. When possible, share a copy with a trusted advocate, advisor, or Title IX contact so the record is protected even if your devices are lost or compromised.
You don’t have to decide about reporting now—documentation simply preserves your options.
Consular staff can explain local procedures and connect you with resources. They can coordinate with police if you want to report and help with practical needs while you make decisions.This is your best resource for understanding the cultural context in your research area and navigating international legal systems.
Information here is general and may change or be inaccurate depending on your country of citizenship—confirm details with the local embassy or consulate before you act.
Many of these links will take you to an embassy page detailing reporting country-specific reporting processes that may not reflect your citizenship or residence. Though the information may be accurate, it is best to access a similar page from your country of residence or citizenship to have the most accurrate information for your circumstance
You can choose whether to report. Laws and procedures vary by state, but many areas use Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) that coordinate medical care, forensic exams, and police response. You can ask police to notify your embassy or consulate for support.
Procedures may differ depending on the country where you conduct research. Visit the Know Your Rights page, select your research country, and click the link under the “Reporting to Local Authorities” column for details.
If you need confidential support or help locating an exam site, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 800-656-HOPE (4673) or chat online at hotline.rainn.org.