The elimination of conflict-related sexual violence would not be possible wit...

The elimination of conflict-related sexual violence would not be possible without addressing the root causes of gender inequality and changing the mindset of the perpetrators, victims and society at large. Victims should be encouraged to speak out and report violence. In most cases victims, especially women, prefer to remain silent to avoid the stigma of being ostracized from their communities, cast out by their husbands and families, and left destitute with their children. Women's empowerment and mainstreaming gender equality in peacekeeping processes and ceasefire agreements are crucial in fighting the scourge. Furthermore, survivors and their families should be provided with sufficient medical, psychological and legal support and rehabilitation programmes.