Localization of Victimization Surveys: A Necessity for Unveiling the Dark Figure of Crime

Abstract

Victimization surveys are one of the methods to uncover the dark figure of crime. For crimes with identifiable victims, these surveys are conducted annually, or semi-annually for certain types of crime, as public surveys. Accurate crime statistics are essential for informed policymaking to prevent criminal behavior. However, these surveys have yet to be implemented in Iran, and crime prevention policies are primarily based on police and judicial statistics, which, for various reasons, fail to reflect the true criminal realities of society. On the other hand, adopting Western models of victimization surveys does not yield the desired data due to cultural differences in survey responses and varying social attitudes toward research projects. This paper aims to propose solutions for localizing victimization surveys to align with the cultural and religious factors prevalent in Iranian society. The research methodology is descriptive and analytical. Data collection is based on the experiences of leading countries in implementing such surveys and the researcher’s own experiences in conducting victimization surveys. Localization of victimization surveys should respect the religious beliefs of the population, safeguard individual privacy, and take into account the cultural nuances of indirect communication and Eastern modesty. Surveyors must also receive proper training on how to approach members of society effectively.