Sexual violence encompasses acts of a sexual nature imposed without consent or by force and threats. This includes sexual slavery, rape, forced prostitution, and other heinous acts that affect women, girls, men, and boys. Often underreported due to fear of stigmatization and repercussions, these crimes can lead to severe psychological and medical consequences.
In conflict and post-conflict settings, sexual violence frequently accompanies other atrocities such as killings and the recruitment of child soldiers. It is often used strategically as a weapon of war to terrorize populations and dismantle community structures.
Under international law, sexual violence can be prosecuted as a war crime, crime against humanity, or act of genocide. Despite significant jurisprudence developed over the past 20 years, these crimes remain alarmingly prevalent.
30 сен 2024
