Congress Passes Bill to Better Protect Volunteers from Violence, Sexual Assault

Everything was going well when Megan Sweeney first arrived in Kyrgyzstan this past March, but that all changed after a particular incident.

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By Alexis Fernandez

Story Created: Nov 3, 2011 at 3:03 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Nov 3, 2011 at 3:03 PM AKDT

Like dozens of Alaska, Megan Sweeney chose to volunteer two years of her life overseas in the Peace Corps.

“No volunteer experience is ever the same, and they tell you that when you leave,” she explained.

Everything was going well when Megan first arrived in Kyrgyzstan this past March, but that all changed after a particular incident, which she said she could not go into detail about.

“Peace Corps would say to us is that you’re in charge of your own safety; you have to be in charge of making sure that you are making good decisions,” she said, and that when bad decisions were made, they “put it back on the volunteer.”

“When bad decisions were made they put it back on the volunteer versus the situation.”

Megan said she was made to feel like the incident was her fault, and, after six months, she returned home to Alaska.

Congress passed a bill Tuesday to better protect volunteers who are victims of violence and sexual assault after volunteer Kate Puzey was murdered in Africa when she accused an employee of sexually assaulting several women.

“There are things that can go wrong and every once in a while every organization needs some kind of review. This is what’s needed at this point, I believe,” said Joseph Sullivan, a former Peace Corps volunteer.

Supporters of the program say it's one more safety net to help future volunteers feel at ease while serving abroad.

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Johhny said on Tuesday, Nov 8 at 8:45 AM

She sure is brave. We don't know why since she couldn't comment on the incident but I sure am glad we have people like her in this country. God bless America.

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Elaine said on Friday, Nov 4 at 9:42 AM

It definitely looks like a tough experience. I also commend all Alaskans who serve in Peace Corps - not everyone would be able to handle it! I hope this law helps protect these upstanding citizens who serve abroad.

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Kelly said on Thursday, Nov 3 at 4:57 PM

That Megan is one brave girl! They're on their own over there (Sidenote: I just used all 3 theres) and face the elements on a daily basis. I commend her and all of our Peace Corps Volunteers worldwide!

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