International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

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2023 Date19 June 2023
2024 Date19 June 2024

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International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is an observance that seeks to raise awareness about the horrific consequences of sexual violence committed during armed conflicts. This day is dedicated to acknowledging the survivors, ensuring justice, and promoting gender equality. The overarching aim of this observance is to foster support and solidarity, while simultaneously contributing to efforts in combating this inhumane act. It is of grave concern that sexual violence still persists as a tactic of war, employed to terrorize and subdue communities. Recognition of this day emphasizes the need to prevent and address the myriad impacts of sexual violence inflicted during times of war.

In India, this observance holds significant relevance as the nation has faced numerous instances of violence due to internal conflicts and cross-border disputes. Alarmed by the surge in sexual violence in conflict zones, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict on June 19, 2015. This move made India, among other nations, an active participant in lending its support towards eradicating sexual violence from conflict zones.

On this day, various organizations and institutions across India organize seminars, conferences, and awareness campaigns that delve into the issues surrounding sexual violence in conflicts. Educational institutions typically engage in debates, panel discussions, and essay competitions, fostering a spirit of active social responsibility in younger generations. The onus is on government institutions, NGOs, and civil society to initiate and participate in campaigns that help raise awareness about the brutality of sexual violence in conflict-affected areas. By shedding light on the issue and educating society, India endeavors to contribute to global efforts targeted at the elimination of this inhumane act. The observance is celebrated every year on the 19th of June.

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Facts about Sexual Violence in Conflict

  • According to the UN, it is estimated that globally, for each rape reported in connection with a conflict, 10 to 20 cases go undocumented.
  • According to the UN, conflict-related sexual violence encompasses rape, sexual slavery, forced prostitution, forced pregnancy, forced abortion, enforced sterilization, forced marriage and any other form of sexual violence perpetrated against women, men, girls, or boys.
  • Sexual violence in conflict situations often targets minority and marginalized communities in India, such as lower-caste groups and religious minorities.
  • The women who serve in India's security forces, such as the police and the military, are often at risk of sexual harassment and assault within their ranks.

Top things to do in India for this observance

  • Explore the UN related site stoprapenow.org. They work with 19 UN entities to end sexual violence in conflict.
  • Explore the UN's youth exhibit on sexual violence in conflict. It features depictions and illustrations that touch on a theme of horror and hope.
  • Watch a documentary or film about sexual violence in conflict in India. Here are our suggestions:
    1. India's Daughter (2015) - A documentary about the 2012 Delhi gang rape and the subsequent protests in India.
    2. Parched (2015) - A drama film that tells the story of four women living in a rural village in India, facing various forms of gender-based violence, including sexual violence.
    3. Mardaani (2014) - A Bollywood film about a female police officer who takes on a child trafficking and sexual abuse case, highlighting the issue of sexual violence against young girls in India.
  • Read a book to learn more about sexual violence in conflict in India. Here are our suggestions:
    1. Sexual Violence and Armed Conflict: India by Rajeshwari Kumari
    2. Endangered Gender: Demography, Environment, and Violence in North-west India by Ravinder Kaur
    3. Gender, Conflict and Peace in Kashmir: The Invisible Stakeholders by Seema Shekhawat

References and related sites

UN: International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

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