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 event that seeks to raise awareness and put an end to sexual violence as a weapon of war. It is an occasion that unites individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide to support survivors and promote accountability for perpetrators. This observance highlights the need for a comprehensive approach in addressing the issue, which includes the provision of essential support services for victims and strong legal frameworks to prevent and combat such crimes.

This global observance was established by the United Nations General Assembly on June 19, 2015, in response to the growing incidents of sexual violence in armed conflict. It is an issue of utmost importance for Canadians, who have been actively participating in international peacekeeping efforts for a significant period. As a country that values human rights and justice, Canada recognizes its role in fostering a global environment where women and girls are empowered, and sexual violence during conflicts is eradicated.

In Canada, various events are organized to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. Communities, organizations, and institutions collaborate to raise awareness through panel discussions, workshops, and performances that reflect the need for empathy and solidarity with the survivors. These events serve as a platform for Canadians to engage with this critical issue and work collectively to ensure a safer and more equitable world. The observance of this day takes place annually on June 19, offering Canadians the opportunity to reflect upon their role in contributing to the global movement against sexual violence in conflict.

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.
• Women and girls are most at risk, but men and boys also experience sexual violence in conflict situations. The susceptibility of individuals is increased in chaotic and violent environments with a lack of security and law enforcement.
• Indigenous women and girls in Canada have faced disproportionately high rates of violence, including sexual violence. According to the National Inquiry into MMIWG, this ongoing crisis is deeply rooted in systemic discrimination, colonialism, and marginalization.
• Canada has made changes in its legal system to better address sexual violence. This includes amendments to India's Criminal Code that broadened the legal definition of sexual offenses, instituting harsher penalties for perpetrators, and implementing a survivor-centered approach to the adjudication process.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

Top things to do in Canada 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 Canadian film or documentary to learn more about the issue sexual violence in conflict areas. Here are some recommendations:
  1. Highway of Tears (2015) - A documentary about the significant number of missing and murdered Indigenous women along a 450-mile stretch of highway in British Columbia, Canada.
  2. Polytechnique (2009) - A Canadian film that dramatizes the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre in Montreal, where a gunman targeted female engineering students.
  3. Rape in the Armed Forces: An Invisible Enemy (2016) - A documentary by France 24 investigates the issue of sexual assault in the military worldwide, including in Canada.
• Read a book to learn more about the history of sexual violence in conflict areas. Here are some suggestions:
  1. Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict: Global Overview and Implications for the Security Sector by Elisabeth J. Wood.
  2. Femicide in Conflict Zones: The Case for Collective Action by Joachim J. Savelsberg and Suzy McElrath.
  3. Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones: From the Ancient World to the Era of Human Rights by Elizabeth Heineman.