19th June : International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict observed

The third annual International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict was observed across the world on June 19, 2018. The day aims to foster solidarity with the survivors who endure multiple, intersecting stigmas in the wake of sexual violence.

Objective

The day aims to foster solidarity with the survivors who endure multiple, intersecting stigmas in the wake of sexual violence, including the stigma of association with a terrorist group and of bearing children conceived through rape by the enemy.

These women and children are often viewed as affiliates, rather than victims, of armed and violent extremist groups.

Background

The United Nations General Assembly on June 19, 2015 proclaimed the day as the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict to:

• Raise awareness of the need to put an end to conflict-related sexual violence.
•  Honour the victims and survivors of sexual violence around the world.
• Pay tribute to all those who have courageously devoted their lives to and lost their lives in standing up for the eradication of these crimes.