Sexual slavery

Sexual slavery is a form of human trafficking and forced prostitution where individuals are coerced into engaging in sexual activities against their will. This practice is a gross violation of human rights and is considered a war crime under international law.

Definition

Sexual slavery is defined by the United Nations as the status or condition of a person over whom any or all of the powers attaching to the right of ownership are exercised, including sexual access through rape or other forms of sexual violence. This definition is broad and encompasses a range of exploitative practices, including forced prostitution, child sexual exploitation, and forced marriage.

History

Sexual slavery has a long and complex history, with instances recorded in many different cultures and periods. In ancient times, sexual slavery was often a consequence of war, with the defeated being taken as slaves by the victors. This practice continued into the modern era, with notable instances during World War II and in conflicts in the Balkans and Rwanda.

Modern Instances

In the modern world, sexual slavery often takes the form of human trafficking, with victims being transported across borders and forced into prostitution. This is a global problem, affecting every region of the world. Notable instances include the Yazidi genocide by ISIS, where thousands of women and girls were taken as sexual slaves, and the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapping in Nigeria by Boko Haram.

Legal Status

Sexual slavery is considered a war crime and a crime against humanity under international law. The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court explicitly includes sexual slavery as a crime, and the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda have both prosecuted cases of sexual slavery.

Prevention and Response

Efforts to prevent and respond to sexual slavery include legal measures, such as the enforcement of laws against human trafficking and sexual exploitation, and support for victims, including counselling and reintegration programs. International organizations such as the United Nations and Amnesty International, as well as numerous non-governmental organizations, are involved in these efforts.