Being recognised as a victim is essential when trying to rebuild one’s life. But recognition by whom, and in what way? We often first think of recognition by society or by the criminal justice system, which has the power to officially acknowledge that violence has taken place. We may then think of the perpetrator, who may or may not recognise the facts. While these forms of recognition can play a role in a victim’s recovery, for example in obtaining compensation or fostering self-recognition, recognition also fundamentally means being able to say to yourself: “What I experienced was not nothing. I have the right to feel what I feel, and I have the right to take time to heal.” This form of recognition often takes time and is perhaps the most crucial step. "Relying on what a perpetrator is willing to say or admit gives them too much power. With distance, the journey of recovery often becomes a return to oneself: learning to trust oneself again, to listen to one’s body, emotions and inner voice."

Source: 
Team of Traverser / Transcender, to read on the website of la Ligue des Droits Humains.