Sexual violence in situations of conflict, like gender-based violence in the ...

Sexual violence in situations of conflict, like gender-based violence in the home, has remained in the private sphere for far too long. In his report (S/2010/604) on the implementation of resolutions 1820 (2008) and 1888 (2009), the Secretary-General affirms that sexual violence used as a weapon of war can become a way of life that continues once the conflict has ended. All too often, such violence is invisible and thereby protected because it is considered a private aspect of interpersonal relationships. However, we cannot forget that it is a crime of war, a crime against humanity and a flagrant breach of human rights.