International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

June 19 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict , a day dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for an end to one of the most egregious manifestations of wartime violence. Sexual violence in conflict affects people of all ages, genders and social contexts, leaving physical and emotional scars that last long after the conflicts end.

Sexual violence in times of war is not a recent phenomenon; It has accompanied humanity throughout the centuries. However, it is only in recent decades that it has gained significant attention internationally. The brutality of cases such as the mass rape in Bosnia during the 1990s and the systematic sexual violence in the Rwanda conflict in 1994 served as wake-up calls that led the international community to recognize the need to address this problem more effectively. .

The Role of the United Nations

In 2008, the United Nations established the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict to highlight the importance of addressing this scourge in a coordinated and urgent manner. Since then, this day has been an annual reminder of the need to protect vulnerable people in conflict zones and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.

UN Security Council Resolution 1820, adopted in 2008, defines sexual violence as a tactic of war that undermines peace and security. Furthermore, this resolution calls on Member States to take specific measures to prevent and address sexual violence, as well as to ensure accountability of those responsible.

The Magnitude of the Problem:

Sexual violence in conflict affects millions of people around the world. It is not limited to a particular country or region and ranges from rape and sexual slavery to genital mutilation and sex trafficking. Women, girls, men and boys are victims of this atrocity, suffering long-term physical and psychological consequences.

The figures are shocking: according to UN data, more than 60% of the victims of sexual violence in conflicts are women and girls. However, it is essential to highlight that men and boys are also victims, and often face additional barriers to reporting this abuse due to existing gender stigmas.

Challenges and Barriers

Despite the progress made in raising awareness and condemning sexual violence in conflict, numerous challenges remain. One of the biggest obstacles is the lack of reporting and accountability. In many cases, victims fear retaliation or face stigmatization in their communities, making it difficult to seek justice.

Lack of adequate resources and support is also a significant problem. Conflict zones often lack basic infrastructure and services, further complicating medical, psychological and legal care for victims. Furthermore, impunity for perpetrators persists due to weak judicial systems in some conflict-affected regions.

Global Efforts and Advances

Despite the challenges, there has been significant progress in combating sexual violence in conflict. Numerous non-governmental organizations and international agencies work tirelessly to provide support to victims, raise awareness and pressure governments and armed actors to take concrete measures.

The United Nations Secretary-General's "UNITE to End Violence against Women" Campaign has played a crucial role in mobilizing governments, communities and the private sector to address gender-based violence in all its forms, including domestic violence. sexual in conflicts. Additionally, the work of organizations such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Doctors Without Borders has been instrumental in documenting cases, providing direct assistance, and advocating for systemic change.

Importance of Prevention

While care after the fact is essential, prevention is equally crucial. Efforts are required to address the underlying causes of sexual violence in conflict, including gender inequality, impunity and lack of respect for human rights. Education and awareness in affected communities can play a critical role in prevention, changing attitudes and norms that perpetuate sexual violence.

Towards a Future without Sexual Violence in Conflicts

The path to eliminating sexual violence in conflict requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. Governments, international organizations, NGOs, affected communities and civil society must work together to address the roots of the problem, provide support to victims and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.

States have the responsibility to strengthen their legal and judicial frameworks to pursue and punish perpetrators of sexual violence in times of conflict. Furthermore, the international community must pressure States to fulfill their obligations under international law and demand justice for victims.

Cooperation between governments, humanitarian agencies and local organizations is essential to provide support services to victims, including medical care, psychological counseling and reintegration into society. Additionally, it is crucial to engage communities in preventing sexual violence, promoting gender equality and challenging cultural norms that perpetuate impunity.