Despite changing attitudes toward the seriousness of sexual abuse in Latin America, sexual violence cases remain under-prosecuted and perpetrators have traditionally received light sentences or been set free in much of the region.

Historical discrimination against women and intense poverty aggravate the problems of sexual violence in the countries in which IJM operates in Latin America. Overburdened judicial systems and widespread underreporting of offenses make convictions difficult to obtain in cases of rape and sexual violence. In Guatemala, for example, it is estimated that 90 percent of rape and domestic violence incidents go unreported. If a case is brought to trial, the likelihood that no conviction will be issued is 90 percent. Similar difficulties exist in each of the countries in which IJM operates in the region.

Children are often voiceless in the aftermath of sexual violence; in Latin America, IJM gives these victims a voice, ensures that their needs are met through aftercare services, and brings justice to their perpetrators. Through advocating for the voiceless, IJM works to end the cycle of sexual violence, bringing relief and protection to victims and the vulnerable.