Statement on Gender-Based Violence in Times of War
November 16, 2023
In light of current events, Shalom Task Force, Inc., reaffirms its stance against the use of sexual assault as a weapon of war. As service providers for victims of intimate partner violence, we understand all too well this abhorrent and inhumane practice which inflicts unimaginable suffering upon individuals and communities.
In a recent reporting, UN Women urges the international community ‘not to overlook the gendered perspective’, however, they focus exclusively on women and children in Gaza and omit the gendered violence committed against Israeli women in the October 7th attack. Shalom Task Force condemns the use of sexual assault as a weapon of war against all women, unconditionally.
Urgent attention is needed to stop the particularly pervasive and enduring practice of the use of sexual violence against women and girls during times of war and the long-term negative impact it has. Though men and boys can also suffer sexual violence, women and girls are disproportionally impacted.
Sexual violence as a tactic of war is a gross violation of international human rights and humanitarian law. It is a cruel and inexcusable act that not only inflicts immediate harm but also perpetuates long-lasting damage within affected societies, often beyond the time of the conflict. History has shown that rape in wartime has been used to horrifying effect. Such crimes are used to humiliate, intimidate and punish.
Sexual assault during armed conflicts can have devastating consequences. It terrorizes and destroys individuals, families and entire communities, reaching unthinkable levels of cruelty against women of all ages from infants to grandmothers. Like domestic violence, it can leave survivors with:
emotional trauma
psychological damage
pain and physical injuries
unwanted pregnancies
sexually transmitted diseases
social stigma and isolation.
The fear of sexual violence holds communities hostage and prevents women and girls from participating in public life or attending school. The costs and consequences last for generations. And like domestic violence, it is based on power and control.
We urge all parties involved in conflict to:
Cease all forms of sexual violence and violence against women and girls immediately.
Respect international laws and agreements, such as the Geneva Conventions and the UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which promote the protection of women and girls in armed conflicts.
Ensure accountability for those responsible for sexual violence during armed conflicts by actively supporting international investigations and prosecutions.
Provide comprehensive support, including legal assistance, social services and mental health services, for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
Shalom Task Force remains committed to supporting survivors of gender-based violence, providing crisis intervention, hotline services, education, and legal assistance. Our mission is to combat and prevent domestic violence and foster healthy and safe relationships and families. STF focuses its work in the Jewish community, to help those that may not have access to traditional services and need culturally sensitive programming. For help, or more information go to www.shalomtaskforce.org.