How criminal systems across Europe are failing women: Sarah’s case

In January 2022, the Cypriot Supreme Court overturned the conviction of Sarah*, a young British woman who was prosecuted, detained before her trial and sentenced for public mischief (false allegations) after she went to the police to report her rape.

Her acquittal comes two and a half years too late. Like many women, Sarah was failed by the system that she turned to for justice. This briefing looks at how this case shows that criminal justice systems are failing women and what needs to be done to reform them.

*Sarah’s name has been changed to protect her privacy.