Addressing Stigma Against Victims/Survivors of Sexual Violence

Despite clear prohibitions under international humanitarian law (IHL), sexual violence has been recorded in at least 51 countries affected by armed conflict. When victims/survivors of sexual violence are unjustly blamed for the violence they have suffered, stigma amplifies the original harm in a multi-layered way. Although often overlooked, stigmatization is one of the key consequences of sexual violence, altering the life trajectories not only of victims/survivors but also societies at large. This poster summarizes the key elements of ICRC’s Policy Brief on addressing stigma against victims/survivors of sexual violence linked to conflict, including the Stigma Impact Model and the recommendations identified through a global consultation on this issue.

Linked to How Does Stigma Impact Victims/Survivors of Sexual Violence During Armed Conflict?