06.09.2014
Fact Sheet: Stopping The Use Of Rape As A Tactic Of War: A New Approach
There is a global consensus that the mass rape of girls and women is routinely used as a tactic or “weapon” of war in contemporary armed conflicts. Despite two decades of intense global efforts, rape used as a tactic of war continues undeterred. This is not surprising: rape is a cheap, powerful, and effective tool for military forces to use to kill and mutilate women and children, force pregnancy, terrorize families and communities, demoralize enemy forces, and accomplish genocide.
Rape used to further military objectives or the strategic aims of a conflict (“strategic rape”), constitutes a prohibited tactic or method of warfare under international humanitarian law.
Related Publications
Letters
10.18.2023
#CeasefireNow: Open Call for an Immediate Ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and Israel to Prevent a Humanitarian Catastrophe and Further Loss of Innocent Lives
Letters
10.16.2023
2023 Open Letter to Permanent Representatives to the United Nations in advance of the annual Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security
Letters
10.05.2023
Joint Call to Advance Gender Justice in the Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention
Briefs and White Papers
10.05.2023
Draft Articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity Should Advance Justice for Reproductive Autonomy
Briefs and White Papers
10.05.2023
The Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention and Forced Marriage
Briefs and White Papers
10.05.2023
Including the Slave Trade in the Draft Articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity
Briefs and White Papers
10.05.2023
Joint Call to Amend the Draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention to Encompass Gender Apartheid
Q&As
09.25.2023