Publisher's Synopsis
Conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) refers to violent acts of a sexual nature, including rape, sexual slavery, enforced prostitution, forced pregnancy, enforced sterilization, mutilation, indecent assault, trafficking, inappropriate medical examinations, and strip searches. CRSV frequently occurs when undisciplined militaries, police forces, or other armed groups believe they can act with impunity against vulnerable individuals. Peacekeepers, in conjunction with other actors, must ensure that sexual violence is addressed as a major area of focus and is routinely incorporated into their Protection of Civilians (PoC) efforts. CRSV frequently occurs during and after armed conflict, and is common within fragile states. It is impossible to obtain a safe and secure environment with adequate protection of civilians if CRSV is a widespread problem. Sexual violence is often a component of genocide, mass atrocities, and crimes against humanity and may occur as part of a deliberate and systematic campaign to target a victim group (for example, to destroy families and communities or to support ethnic cleansing from an area). It may also occur in a more decentralized fashion due to a general lack of security and stability. Sexual violence is a crime and should not be dismissed simply as a social problem. However, CRSV is a problem that persons in authority too easily overlook. While CRSV is often assumed to be directed against women and girls, CRSV also includes assaults against men and boys. The threat of CRSV also has an adverse effect, as potential victims may avoid necessary activities such as travelling, working, farming, obtaining water, or collecting firewood if they are vulnerable when doing so.
