Sexual violence against women and children during wars is a heinous crime that has been used as a weapon of war for far too long. It is a brutal tactic that not only inflicts physical and psychological harm on its victims, but also tears apart the very fabric of society. Yet, despite its widespread use, it is often dismissed as collateral damage – an inevitable consequence of armed conflict. This mindset must change. As the Permanent Representative of Denmark to the United Nations (UN) Christina Markus Lassen rightly said, sexual violence in war is not collateral damage, it is a strategy, it is systematic, and it is used more and more.
Lassen’s powerful words were spoken at the August 19 Security Council meeting on Women and Peace and Security. The meeting, which focused on the protection of women and children in armed conflict, shed light on the alarming increase in sexual violence during wars. It is a reality that cannot be ignored any longer.
The use of sexual violence as a tactic of war is not a new phenomenon. It has been used throughout history, from ancient times to modern conflicts. However, what is alarming is the increasing frequency and brutality of these acts. In recent years, we have seen a rise in the use of sexual violence as a deliberate strategy to terrorize and control civilian populations. It is a tactic that is used to humiliate, intimidate, and punish not just the victims, but also their families and communities.
The consequences of sexual violence in war are devastating and long-lasting. Women and children who are subjected to such atrocities suffer physical injuries, unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and psychological trauma. They are often ostracized by their communities and face stigma and discrimination. The impact on their mental health and well-being is immeasurable. Moreover, the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war also has a ripple effect on society, causing breakdowns in families and communities, and hindering the post-conflict recovery and reconciliation process.
It is time to recognize that sexual violence in war is not an inevitable consequence of armed conflict. It is a deliberate and calculated tactic used by armed groups to achieve their objectives. It is a violation of international humanitarian law and human rights law, and it must be treated as such. The international community must take a strong stance against this crime and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
The UN has taken significant steps towards addressing sexual violence in conflict. The Security Council has adopted several resolutions, including Resolution 1820, which recognizes sexual violence as a tactic of war and a threat to international peace and security. The UN has also established the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, which works to prevent and respond to sexual violence in conflict-affected areas.
However, more needs to be done. The international community must work together to prevent sexual violence in conflict and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. This includes providing support and resources to survivors, strengthening legal frameworks, and promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. It is also crucial to involve women in peacebuilding and decision-making processes, as they are often the most affected by sexual violence in conflict.
As we strive towards a more peaceful and just world, we must remember that sexual violence in war is not collateral damage. It is a deliberate and systematic tactic that must be stopped. We must stand in solidarity with the survivors and work towards a future where sexual violence in conflict is no longer used as a weapon. Let us heed the words of Christina Markus Lassen and recognize that it is not collateral damage, it is a strategy, and it must be stopped.
