Breaking the Chains of Silence towards the Eradication of Sexual Violence in Conflict

Introduction

Gender-based violence encompasses a multitude of patriarchal sanctioned directed at persons because of their gender. It particularly resonates as a code phrase for violence inflicted, against women and girls,precisely because they are females. Gender based violence is itself, a manifestation of the human rights violation of discrimination based on sex. The pervasiveness of sexual violence impedes or deprives women and girls of the ability to exercise their:

1. Civil and political rights

2. Economic, social and cultural rights

3. Third generation rights such as the right to peace and development. Prominent studies have unflinchingly identified the rise of sexual violence during periods of war and national emergencies engendering a demise in the observance of human rights, especially for women and girls. 

Sexual violence in conflict zones is an abhorrent crime that inflicts immeasurable suffering upon individuals, families, and communities. It undermines human dignity, perpetuates cycles of violence, and destabilizes societies long after the conflicts have ceased. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the international community has made significant efforts to address and eliminate sexual violence in conflict.

During the 1970s and 80s feminists engaged with the state and obtained significant allocation of resources to combat sexual violence (Franzway, Connell & Court, 1989). The early success of this process can be attributed to a combination of factors; the power of collective action supported by a broad based political movement, sympathetic Federal and State Labor parties in office, a buoyant economy and the combined efforts of radical and liberal feminists. This saw increasing numbers of femocrats entering state and federal bureaucracies to represent the womens agenda and push through reforms (Carmody, 1995; Sawyer, 1990; Summers, 1994; Yeatman, 1990). In this era of top down policy initiatives, politicians learnt they had to support their commitment to the demands of the women’s lobby by allocating resources to address feminist concerns about violence. 

The focus of political action in the early years of feminism was gaining acceptance that sexual violence should be of concern to the public and the state. In this sense we can point to many important social policy initiatives and be proud. 

However, despite the long and hard battles this took, still little has been achieved by way of the prevention of intimate sexual violence. 

Why is Sexual Violence so difficult to prevent? 

Combating sexual violence is disagreeable to easy quick fix solutions so popular among politicians and crime prevention specialists. The reasons are complex but would include some if not all of the following factors. The first is that much sexual violence still remains hidden, or unrecognised, and thus remains outside the social infrastructure of normalisation. Studies have consistently shown that sexual violence is heavily underreported, although estimates of the level of under reporting vary (NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics & Research, 1997; Bargen, Fishwick, 1995, NSW Standing Committee on Social Issues, 1993, Salmelainen, Coumarelos, 1993).

The International Crime Not surprisingly it has been feminist activists, scholars and bureaucrats who have pondered most seriously the prevention of sexual violence in society. While radical feminist discourse on preventing sexual violence argues for a radical restructuring of society and reconfiguring of gender relations, liberal feminist discourse aims for gender equality. This results in a primary focus on working within the state apparatus to bring about social policy reforms; for example, victim friendly laws and court procedures, victim support services and community education. As Bell has argued ‘Feminism has problematised violence against women in a particular way, but is forced to enter into a discursive space where several different understandings of what violence against women is about to be produced’ (Bell, 1993). Central to both of these discourses is an attempt to reconfigure power relations between men and women that are manifested in sexual violence. 

However, different understandings operate concerning the influences, which lead to sexual violence and the strategies to address them.  By adopting a multi-faceted approach that encompasses prevention, protection, prosecution, and support for survivors, we can work towards a future where sexual violence becomes an unthinkable reality.

Prevention strategies conceived within a neo-liberal social policy framework have focused primarily on women taking action to avoid victimisation. 

Preventing sexual assault included is a list of tips to assist women in avoiding sexual assault. Using the acronym PREVENT they suggest women: 

-Put change in your wallet for a ride home 

-Recognise the early signs of potential assault 

-Examine your surroundings constantly and carefully 

-Verbalize your resistance loudly 

-Exhibit confidence in potentially threatening situations 

-Never assume sexual assault can’t happen to you 

-Travel in groups 

*Prevention:

Prevention lies at the heart of eliminating sexual violence in conflict. It involves addressing root causes such as gender inequality, discrimination, and harmful social norms. Education and awareness programs should be implemented to challenge stereotypes, promote gender equality, and foster a culture of respect. Engaging with local communities, religious leaders, and civil society organizations can facilitate the transformation of societal attitudes and norms that perpetuate sexual violence.

*Protection:

Ensuring the protection of individuals at risk of sexual violence is paramount. Robust legal frameworks must be established and enforced, incorporating the principles of international humanitarian law and human rights. This includes strengthening the accountability of armed forces, peacekeeping missions, and non-state actors through clear codes of conduct and effective disciplinary measures. Additionally, the provision of safe spaces, early warning systems, and gender-responsive humanitarian assistance can help mitigate the risks faced by vulnerable populations.

*Prosecution:

Accountability is crucial in combating sexual violence in conflict. National and international judicial systems must be empowered to investigate and prosecute perpetrators, ensuring fair and impartial trials. States should adopt legislation that recognizes sexual violence as a war crime, crime against humanity, or act of genocide, closing impunity gaps. The International Criminal Court and other relevant tribunals play a crucial role in holding individuals accountable for their actions and delivering justice to survivors.

*Support for Survivors:

Comprehensive support for survivors is vital to their physical, psychological, and social recovery. Access to medical services, including sexual and reproductive health care, must be prioritized, along with psychosocial support and legal aid. Empowering survivors through economic opportunities, education, and skills training can help restore their dignity and facilitate their reintegration into society. Engaging men and boys in prevention efforts and transforming harmful gender norms is also essential for building inclusive and supportive communities.

*International Cooperation and Partnerships:

Addressing sexual violence in conflict necessitates international cooperation and partnerships. Collaboration between governments, civil society organizations, the United Nations, regional bodies, and other stakeholders is essential to share best practices, coordinate efforts, and mobilize resources. Donor countries should increase funding for programs addressing sexual violence, recognizing it as a critical priority in humanitarian and development assistance agendas.

*Innovative Approaches and Technologies:

In the pursuit of eliminating sexual violence in conflict, innovative approaches and technologies can play a transformative role. The use of data analysis, artificial intelligence, and digital tools can enhance early warning systems, facilitate documentation of crimes, and support survivor-centered responses. Technology can also aid in the collection and preservation of evidence, strengthening the prospects of successful prosecutions. However, it is crucial to ensure ethical considerations, privacy protection, and gender-sensitive approaches when implementing these technologies, mitigating any potential risks or misuse.

*Engaging Men and Boys:

Engaging men and boys is pivotal in addressing the root causes of sexual violence in conflict. Education and awareness programs that promote gender equality and challenge harmful masculinity norms are vital. Men and boys must be encouraged to become active allies in the fight against sexual violence, standing against all forms of discrimination and violence. By promoting positive models of masculinity and promoting healthy relationships, we can foster a culture of respect and equality.

*Long-Term Strategies and Sustainable Peacebuilding:

Eliminating sexual violence in conflict requires long-term strategies that prioritize sustainable peacebuilding. Investing in conflict prevention, mediation, and peacekeeping efforts can help address the underlying factors that contribute to violence. Women's meaningful participation in peace processes and decision-making is crucial, as their perspectives and experiences can lead to more inclusive and sustainable outcomes. Strengthening the rule of law, promoting good governance, and addressing socioeconomic disparities are integral components of sustainable peacebuilding efforts.

*Monitoring and Reporting Mechanisms:

Establishing robust monitoring and reporting mechanisms is essential to track progress, identify gaps, and hold accountable those responsible for sexual violence in conflict. Independent commissions, fact-finding missions, and expert panels can provide accurate documentation, analysis, and recommendations for action. National and international bodies should regularly monitor and report on the implementation of prevention, protection, prosecution, and support measures, fostering transparency and accountability.

Conclusion

The elimination of sexual violence in conflict demands a collective and unwavering commitment from governments, organizations, communities, and individuals worldwide. By addressing the root causes, strengthening prevention efforts, ensuring accountability, providing comprehensive support for survivors, and fostering international cooperation, we can create a world where sexual violence in conflict is eradicated. Let us join forces, raise our voices, and take concrete action to protect the most vulnerable, uphold human rights, and build a future free from the horrors of sexual violence in times of conflict. Together, we can create lasting change and shape a world where dignity, equality, and peace prevail.