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Royal Caribbean first to earn best practices certification for prevention, response to sexual violence

Royal Caribbean first to earn best practices certification for prevention, response to sexual violence
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. became the first corporation to earn compliance certification for best practices in the prevention and response to sexual violence under new standards developed by the Rape, Abuse & Incest Network (RAINN).

RAINN is reputed to be largest anti-sexual violence organization in the US. Its new program, 'Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Best Practices Standards,' is designed to help companies and organizations achieve safety standards and improve the way that they prevent and respond to sexual violence.

Earlier this year, representatives from RAINN conducted a comprehensive analysis of Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises ships and performed an intensive review of Royal Caribbean’s policies, procedures and training. This included a close examination of 11 key areas, from physical ship security to crew training and victim care services.

After measuring the quality and thoroughness of Royal Caribbean’s approach to sexual assault prevention and response, RAINN granted the global cruise company compliance certification for its Cruise Line Best Practice Standards.

'Nothing is more important to us than the safety and security of our guests and crew,' said Richard Fain, Royal Caribbean chairman and ceo. 'We set high standards for ourselves, and on the most important subjects, we look to experts for guidance. RAINN’s evaluation was complete and thorough, and we take pride in reaching the standards they set for certification.'

The standards for RCL’s certification were created specifically for the cruise industry and take into account requirements under the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act and other applicable laws, as well as crime prevention and response issues that are specific to the cruise line industry.

RAINN’s experts created the standards based on their knowledge of best practices in sexual assault prevention, public education and victim services.

'We are confident these standards will provide a benchmark for institutions and companies to measure against as they take their own steps to reduce the number of sexual assaults and provide a high level of care for survivors,' said Scott Berkowitz, president and founder of RAINN.

The Washington, DC-based organization is in the process of developing standards that will be customized for a variety of sectors. The program will be available for a diverse range of industries including travel and tourism, secondary and higher education, youth services, ground transportation and religious organizations.