Wartime sexual violence

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Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict (14220829419)

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Chinese girl from one of the Japanese Army's 'comfort battalions'

Algerian woman sexually abused by the French army

Wartime sexual violence refers to rape and other forms of sexual abuse committed by combatants during armed conflict, military occupation, or aggressive expansions. The practice has been widespread, affecting both men and women, and is recognized as a violation of human rights and a form of war crime. Wartime sexual violence can have devastating effects on individuals and communities, leading to long-term physical, psychological, and social consequences.

History

Historically, wartime sexual violence has been documented in numerous conflicts around the world. From ancient times through to modern conflicts, armies and combatants have used sexual violence as a tactic of war to terrorize and demoralize enemy populations, break the will of opponents, and claim victory over conquered peoples. Notable instances include the Rape of Nanking during the Second Sino-Japanese War, the mass rapes during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, and the use of rape as a weapon of war in the Bosnian War in the 1990s.

Causes and Motivations

The causes of wartime sexual violence are complex and multifaceted. Factors include the breakdown of societal norms and laws during conflict, the dehumanization of the enemy, the assertion of power and dominance, and the use of rape as a strategic tool to achieve military objectives. In some cases, military leaders have explicitly encouraged or ordered sexual violence as a means of terrorizing populations or rewarding soldiers.

Consequences

The consequences of wartime sexual violence are profound and far-reaching. Survivors may suffer from a range of physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, and psychological trauma, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. The social stigma associated with rape can lead to isolation, abandonment, and discrimination. Additionally, wartime sexual violence can have significant impacts on communities, including the breakdown of social cohesion and increased vulnerability to future violence.

International Response

The international community has taken steps to address and prevent wartime sexual violence. The establishment of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the inclusion of rape and sexual violence as crimes against humanity and war crimes under its jurisdiction marked significant progress. Various international treaties and conventions, such as the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, also provide a legal framework for the protection of civilians, including prohibitions against sexual violence.

Prevention and Support

Efforts to prevent wartime sexual violence and support survivors include the implementation of international laws and norms, training for military personnel on human rights, and the integration of gender perspectives into peacekeeping and conflict resolution initiatives. Support for survivors focuses on providing medical care, psychological support, and legal assistance to help them rebuild their lives.

See Also

• Genocide
• Crimes against humanity
• War crimes
• Gender-based violence

Wartime sexual violence Resources
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