The Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima (APAV) is a countrywide solidarity institution with the mission of providing information, protection and support to victims of criminal offenses. It plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of crime victims and in fighting domestic violence in Portugal. It contributes to a more inclusive society and provides support to crime victims, as well as to their families and friends, in a personalized and humane manner, offering them quality and confidential services free of charge.
APAV operates across the country through a network of 18 Victim Support Offices, which cover 25 locations; 3 Shelters for women who have been victims of domestic violence and human trafficking (and their children); 1 Victim Support Hotline and remote support; and 3 specialized support networks: children and youths who have been victims of sexual violence; homicide victims' relatives and friends; and migrant and discrimination victims.
