Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

The Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) theme focuses on the incidence and prevalence of violence against women in conflict and post-conflict settings. Polarisation of gender roles, proliferation of weapons, militarisation, and the breakdown of law influence SGBV.

The risk of SGBV is heightened during conflict by aggravating factors, including the polarization of gender roles, the proliferation of arms, the militarization of society, and the breakdown of law and order. The subsequent long-term and complex impacts of SGBV continue to affect individuals and communities after conflict ends.

SGBV is addressed in all five resolutions on Women, Peace and Security. In SCR 1888, the Security Council expresses its intention to ensure peacekeeping mandate resolutions contain provisions on the prevention of, and response to, sexual violence, with corresponding reporting requirements to the Council (OP11). The resolutions deal with protecting women from violence (1820,OP3, 8-10; 1888,OP3,12); strengthening local and national institutions to assist victims of sexual violence (1820,OP13; 1888,OP13); and including strategies to address sexual violence in post-conflict peacebuilding processes (1820,OP11). SCR 1820 also calls for the participation of women in the development of mechanisms intended to protect women from violence (OP10).

Lastly, SCR 1960 creates institutional tools and teeth to combat impunity and outlines specific steps needed for both the prevention of and protection from conflict-related sexual violence. The new “naming and shaming,” listing mechanism mandated in the Resolution is a step forward in bringing justice for victims and a recognition that sexual violence is a serious violation of human rights and international law.

Addressing SGBV is an integral aspect of the overall Women, Peace and Security agenda. SGBV affects the health and safety of women, and also has significant impact on economic and social stability. The Security Council recognises that sexual violence can threaten international peace and security, and that it is frequently used as a tactic of war to dominate, humiliate, terrorise, and displace.

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SGBV, PB

Extract: 

Through my work with survivors of sexual and gender based violence, I know that women and girls, as it relates to human trafficking in conflict, are primarily viewed as victims — the spoils of war given the forced temporary marriage, sexual slavery, impregnation by militants and abandonment or ostracizing from their communities, which are all too rampant.

SGBV, Displacement

Extract: 

In the same way that we were blind to the signs of a drought and famine unfolding before us, we are still blind to what undignified contexts of such desperation do to the affected population.

Concept Note: Security Council Open Debate on the Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Forced Labour, Slavery and Other Similar Practices

Concept Note.pdf

Getting it Right-Protection of South Sudanese Refugees

Getting it Right-Protection of South Sudanese Refugees.pdf

When No One Is Looking: 3 Years of Healing in Democratic Republic of the Congo

When No One Is Looking.pdf

New MenEngage Platform Launches in Eastern Europe and Central Asia to Engage Men and Boys for Gender Justice

New MenEngage Platform Launches in Eastern Europe and Central Asia to Engage Men and Boys for Gender Justice.pdf

Why a Feminist Foreign Policy Is Needed More than Ever

Why a Feminist Foreign Policy Is Needed More than Ever - Inter Press Service.pdf

Statement on the Report of the Commission of Inquiry on Syria

This statement by WILPF addresses the Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic's report on how the Syrian goverment and its supporters targeted civilian infrastructures in Aleppo. The report lacked a gender perspective and did not include gender disaggregated data.

Statement on the Report of the Commission of Inquiry on Syria

STATEMENT ON THE REPORT OF THE COMMISSION OF INQUIRY ON SYRIA.pdf

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