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 >>

In Orlando, as Usual, Domestic Violence Was Ignored Red Flag

Rolling Stone.pdf

Launch of New WILPF Report at the UN Headquarters in New York

On 6 June 2016, the Women’s International League of Peace and Freedom’s Disarmament programme, Reaching Critical Will, launched a report, Preventing gender-based violence through arms control, at a side event to the Sixth Biennial Meeting of States (BMS6).

Launch of New WILPF Report at the UN Headquarters in New York

Launch of New WILPF Report at the UN Headquarters in New York.pdf

Violations Against Women in Syria and the Disproportionate Impact of the Conflict on them: NGO Summary Report for the Universal periodic Review of Syria

“Violations Against Women in Syria and the Disproportionate Impact of the Conflict on them: NGO Summary Report for the Universal periodic Review of Syria” is a report conducted by The Women’s international League of Peace and Freedom (WILPF) conducted research with grassroots Syrian women’s organisations and is part of a long-term commitment by WILPF to the Syrian cause.

Violations Against Women in Syria and the Disproportionate Impact of the Conflict on them: NGO Summary Report for the Universal periodic Review of Syria

“Violations Against Women in Syria and the Disproportionate Impact of the Conflict on them: NGO Summary Report for the Universal periodic Review of Syria” is a report conducted by The Women’s international League of Peace and Freedom (WILPF) conducted research with grassroots Syrian women’s organisations and is part of a long-term commitment by WILPF to the Syrian cause.

 

Violations Against Women in Syria and the Disproportionate Impact of the Conflict on them: NGO Summary Report for the Universal periodic Review of Syria

WILPF_VAW_HC-2016_WEB-ONEPAGE.pdf

Weapons and Gender: Preventing gender-based violence and promoting equality through implementation of the ATT and UNPOA

On 6 June, The Women’s International League of Peace and Freedom, launched a report, “Preventing Gender Based Violence Through Arms Control” as a side event to the Sixth Biennial Meeting of States (BMS6). The report discusses tools and guidelines for effective implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) and the UN Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons (UNPoA) provisions related to gender-based violence.

Booted: Lack of Recourse for Wrongfully Discharged US Military Rape Survivors

“Booted: Lack of Recourse for Wrongfully Discharged US Military Rape Survivors,” is a report resulting from a 28-month investigation by Human Rights Watch with the support of Protect our Defenders. The report found that many military personnel were unfairly discharged rendering then ineligible for benefits.

Booted: Lack of Recourse for Wrongfully Discharged US Military Rape Survivors

Booted- Lack of Recourse for Wrongfully Discharged US Military Rape Survivors.pdf

Concept note for the High-level open debate on protecting civilians in the context of peacekeeping operations, June, 2016

N1615501 (1).pdf

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