International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is observed on June 19th every year. This day aims to raise awareness about the devastating effects of sexual violence in conflict zones and to promote efforts to prevent such atrocities.

Sexual violence is a tactic of war and a grave violation of human rights, affecting millions of people, mostly women and girls, around the world. It is used to intimidate, terrorize, and destroy communities, and its consequences can be long-lasting and devastating.

The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 to commemorate the adoption of Security Council resolution 1820, which recognizes sexual violence as a tactic of war and a threat to international peace and security.

The origins of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict can be traced back to the early 2000s, when the United Nations began to address the issue of sexual violence in conflict zones.

In 2008, the UN Security Council adopted resolution 1820, which recognized sexual violence as a tactic of war and a threat to international peace and security. This resolution marked a significant shift in the international community's approach to addressing sexual violence in conflict.

The adoption of resolution 1820 was followed by a series of initiatives and resolutions aimed at preventing and responding to sexual violence in conflict. In 2015, the UN General Assembly established the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict to commemorate the adoption of resolution 1820.

To observe the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, individuals and organizations can take several steps:

Organize awareness-raising events, such as rallies, marches, and workshops, to educate people about the devastating effects of sexual violence in conflict zones.

Support organizations that provide assistance to survivors of sexual violence, such as medical care, counseling, and legal aid.

Advocate for policies and laws that prevent and respond to sexual violence in conflict, and hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes.

• Victim-blaming and shaming
• Denial of sexual violence as a tactic of war
• Lack of accountability for perpetrators
• Inadequate support for survivors
• Silence and stigma surrounding sexual violence