Accountability and empowerment: Supporting Survivors of Conflict Related Sexual Violence

Accountability and empowerment: Supporting Survivors of Conflict Related Sexual Violence

25 October 2024, 11:30-13:00, CR 11, New York

Conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) remains a grave and pervasive issue in conflict and post- conflict zones worldwide, affecting primarily women and girls, but also men and boys.

In the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine, reports of women, girls and children raped remain a painful and appalling testimony of the usage of sexual violence as a weapon of war and its destructive force in the society.

In Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, CAR, DRC, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Somalia, Syria, Libya, and Yemen, women continue to be objects of different forms of conflict-related sexual violence.

Such violence not only inflicts immediate physical and psychological harm, but also perpetuates cycles of trauma and impunity. Despite international legal frameworks and increased awareness, survivors often face significant challenges in accessing justice, comprehensive support services, and opportunities for empowerment. For children born from conflict-related rape, and for their mothers, who both often face additional discrimination, such challenges are even more daunting.

Accountability remains fundamental in responding to, preventing, and ultimately eliminating CRSV. Lack of accountability perpetuates an extremely dangerous cycle of impunity, emboldening those who commit sexual violence to continue their actions without any fear of consequences.

The side event “Accountability and Empowerment: Supporting Survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence” aims to shine a spotlight on the specific challenges faced by survivors and to explore tailored strategies and initiatives that can enhance accountability, support survivors, and empower affected communities by presenting, in particular, the experience of Kosovo1- and Ukraine.

It will serve as a platform to galvanize efforts, and share knowledge, by focusing on best practices, strategies and initiatives that enhance accountability, support survivors, and empower affected communities. By prioritizing accountability, comprehensive support, and empowerment, we aim to create a more inclusive and just post-conflict environment where survivors can rebuild their lives with dignity and in safety.