Protection

Despite the efforts of the international community, many documented cases of sexual violence in conflict still exist. In that context, the Organization’s work on the ground has been critical in collecting information and facilitating dialogue to obtain protection commitments from parties in conflict.

We cannot ignore cultural stigma and victims’ fear of suffering reprisals or intimidation by their abusers, including against their families or witnesses, which cause most of them not to report the violence. That goes hand in hand with the lack of trust and credibility in national institutions, particularly when sexual violence is perpetrated by the very forces responsible for providing necessary protection.