“No Callem” is a Spanish protocol that has become a global reference in the fight against sexual violence. Created in 2018, the protocol aims to encourage victims of sexual assault to report crimes and seek support, as well as offering guidance to health professionals, police forces and other institutions on how to deal with these cases in a sensitive and effective way.

One of the distinguishing features of the “No Callem” protocol is its emphasis on active listening and welcoming of victims, ensuring that they feel supported and respected throughout the reporting and investigation process. In addition, the protocol aims to combat harmful stereotypes about sexual violence and promote a culture of respect and gender equality.

The success of “No Callem” in Spain has inspired other countries to adopt similar measures in their own fight against sexual violence. The protocol’s holistic, victim-centered approach has become a model for implementing more effective and compassionate policies around the world.

How the 'No Callem' protocol works

The “No Callem” protocol works as a set of guidelines and procedures designed to deal with cases of sexual violence in a sensitive, effective and victim-centered way. Here are some of the key aspects of how it operates:

1. **Active Listening and Empathy:** The protocol emphasizes the importance of actively listening to victims of sexual violence, demonstrating empathy and respect for their experiences. This involves creating a safe and supportive environment so that victims feel comfortable reporting what happened.

2. **Reception and Support:** Victims receive emotional and practical support from the moment they report their case until the end of the case. This may include access to mental health services, legal aid, safe shelter and other forms of support as needed.

3. **Service Protocols:** Health care professionals, police officers and other staff involved in providing services to victims receive specialized training on how to approach cases of sexual violence. This includes clear guidelines on how to collect evidence in a sensitive manner that preserves the dignity and privacy of the victim.

4. **Integration of Services:** The protocol promotes the integration of different services, such as health, justice and social assistance, to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive response to cases of sexual violence.

5. **Education and Awareness:** In addition to dealing with individual cases, the “No Callem” protocol also aims to educate the public about sexual violence prevention and promote a culture of mutual respect and consent.

Overall, the goal of the “No Callem” protocol is to provide a holistic, victim-centered approach to dealing with sexual violence, aiming not only to punish perpetrators but also to support and empower victims throughout the process of recovery and seeking justice.

Brazilian 'No means No' protocol

“No means No” is a Brazilian protocol inspired by the movement of the same name that aims to combat sexual harassment during Carnival and other public events. This protocol establishes clear guidelines to promote respect for people’s limits and prevent situations of violence and abuse.

The essence of the “No Means No” protocol is simple: when someone says “no,” regardless of the context, that no should be respected. In the context of Carnival and other festive events, this means that if a person expresses that they do not want unwanted physical interactions, such as unsolicited hugs, kisses, or touching, that boundary should be respected immediately.

The “No means No” protocol is supported by several organizations, civil society groups and government authorities in Brazil. It is usually promoted through awareness campaigns, educational materials and social mobilization actions before and during events.

In addition to promoting consent and respect for individual limits, the protocol also seeks to encourage victims of harassment to report cases, offering information on how to proceed in cases of sexual violence and promoting an environment of support and solidarity.

In short, the “No means No” protocol represents an important effort to promote a culture of respect, consent and safety in public spaces, especially during festive events where social interactions are more intense.