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.

For more resources on this Critical Issue, visit PeaceWomen Resource Center >>

6th Congress of the National Union of Eritrean Women: Women Make a Difference

Almost 400 women from around the country and abroad participated in the 6th Congress of the National Union of Eritrean Women. During the three-day Congress, a 1998-2002 report of the National Union and report on the status of the implementation of CEDAW (Convention for the Elimination of all Discrimination Against Women) in Eritrea were presented. Also, a new Central Council for the National Union of Eritrean Women was elected.

Women Pedal for Peace

The "Peace Bikes" initiative is part of UNDP's larger sexual and gender-based violence programme which has trained over 700 women in peacebuilding, negotiation and conflict resolution skills.

The Women of Birao Tell Their Own Stories

Since July 2007, the Comité d'Aide Médicale has implemented a psychosocial program that supports people traumatised by the conflict in Birao, Vakaga province, thanks to the support of the United Nation Emergency Response Funds (ERF).

Women Under Attack

Women and children have been systematically attacked during Burundi's 10-year conflict Sexual violence has been widely used during Burundi's 10-year civil war to terrorize and humiliate the population.

End harassment of women human rights defenders


The Women Human Rights Defenders International Coalition (WHRD IC) calls on Fiji's military regime to end its harassment of Imrana Jalal and all women human rights defenders.

Rape in Burundi: Demand Justice Now!

Rape is widespread throughout Burundi, though many cases remain unprosecuted. A 13 year old girl has been deprived of justice after being forced to make an out of court settlement with her alleged rapist.

Write to the Public Prosecutor in Burundi to demand that the alleged rape is investigated and the suspect brought to justice!

Shattering Silences: Karen Women speak out about the Burmese Military Regime's use of Rape as a Strategy of War in Karen State

The Karen Women's Organization is a community-based organization of Karen women working in development/relief in the refugee camps on the Thai border and with IDPs inside Burma. The objectives of the KWO are to empower Karen women, to increase women's participation in decision-making at all levels and to achieve equality with men.

Campaign for Good Governance

Launched after the first muti-party democratic elections after three decades, the purpose of the Campaign for Good Governance is to promote democratic participation of civil society, capacity building, gender empowerment for gender equality, human rights and the rule of law.

Campaign for Amina Lawal

On 22 March 2002, Amina Lawal, 30 years old, Muslim, was condemned to death for having a child as a divorced woman by a Sharia court in Bakori in the Katsina State of northern Nigeria.

Women Students Prevent Incest and Help Victims

Studies conducted by RAHI amongst women college students in India have shown that incest/child sexual abuse is prevalent and impacts their lives. Due to silence on this issue, there is little information, training or services. Young women want access to information and healing resources and feel the need to be engaged in social action for prevention and intervention.

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