“Black Out”: raising awareness about chemical submission in New Caledonia
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Why are these documentaries necessary?
Memory loss, confusion, and feelings of shame can delay speaking out. Showing the diversity of situations helps understand that a victim does not always have a continuous account or immediate evidence.
A lack of memory does not call into question the reality of distress or assault. Professionals must receive the testimony without judgment and avoid any wording that would place responsibility on the person concerned.
Chemical submission and chemical vulnerability
Chemical submission refers to the administration of a substance without knowledge or under coercion. Chemical vulnerability refers to the exploitation of a state caused by voluntary consumption. This distinction is useful for analyzing the facts but does not change the responsibility of the perpetrator of an assault.
What symptoms can be observed?
- drowsiness or disproportionate intoxication;
- balance, speech, or vision disorders;
- confusion, disorientation, or unusual behavior;
- memory gaps or amnesia;
- nausea, discomfort, loss of consciousness, or difficulty breathing.
These symptoms can have multiple causes. However, they should lead to protecting the person and, when the condition is concerning, to immediately seek medical help.
What to do after suspicion?
- place the person in a safe location and do not leave them alone;
- request prompt medical care;
- specify that chemical submission is suspected;
- if possible, keep the glass, bottle, or packaging involved;
- note the times, symptoms, and known details;
- in case of assault or danger, contact the police or gendarmerie.
Some substances can be eliminated quickly. It is therefore best not to wait before consulting. A negative rapid test is not enough to rule out the facts, as it may not detect the substance involved.
Prevention must not isolate victims
Prevention messages should target criminal behaviors and collective responsibility: watching a glass can never become an obligation imposed on the victim. Establishments and events benefit from training their teams, providing a reception point, and organizing cooperation with emergency services.
