June 19, 2019
Each year on 19 June, the international community commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. The use of forms of sexual violence, including (gang) rape, forced prostitution and forced marriage, as a ‘weapon of war’ has severe consequences for those affected. Please see the new article in our Topics section on sexual violence in conflict, written by our volunteer Somaya Bahji.
Survivor-centred approach
This year marks the 10-year anniversary of the establishment of the mandate of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict. The most recent UN Security Council Resolution 2467 (adopted on 23 April 2019) articulates a survivor-centred approach to the prevention and response to conflict-related sexual violence. However, unfortunately, the resolution left out all references to sexual and reproductive health and rights.
The latest report of the Secretary-General states the following health-specific services that are necessary from a survivor-centred approach:
- clinical management of rape
- psychosocial support
- emergency contraception and safe termination of pregnancy
- HIV testing and treatment.
Recently, IFHHRO has become a member of the CRSV (Conflict-Related Sexual Violence) NGO Network in the Netherlands. This informal network is led by IMPACT, Center against Human Trafficking and Sexual Violence in Conflict.
Source: https://www.un.org/en/events/elimination-of-sexual-violence-in-conflict/index.shtml
Go to Topics | Sexual violence in conflict