19 June: International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

Background

On 19 June 2015, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/69/293, designating 19 June each year as the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. This day seeks to raise global awareness of the urgent need to end conflict-related sexual violence, to honor survivors and victims worldwide, and to pay tribute to those who have courageously dedicated—or lost—their lives in the fight against these grave human rights violations.

The date commemorates the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1820 on 19 June 2008, a landmark resolution that unequivocally condemned sexual violence as a tactic of war and recognized it as a serious barrier to peacebuilding and reconciliation.

In response to the growing threats posed by violent extremism, the Security Council later adopted resolution S/RES/2331 (2016). This was the first resolution to address the complex links between human trafficking, sexual violence, terrorism, and transnational organized crime. It acknowledged sexual violence as a deliberate tactic used by terrorist groups and affirmed that victims of trafficking and sexual violence exploited by such organizations should receive legal recognition and support as victims of terrorism.

Why This Day Matters

Sexual violence in conflict zones remains one of the most under-reported and overlooked crimes globally. Survivors often face stigma, limited access to justice, and inadequate support for recovery. The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict serves to:

• Increase global awareness and advocacy against sexual violence in war and conflict situations.
• Support survivors by promoting access to medical, psychological, and legal assistance.
• Encourage governments, international organizations, and civil society to strengthen laws and policies that prevent sexual violence and hold perpetrators accountable.
• Highlight ongoing challenges and progress in combating sexual violence during armed conflicts.

Global Statements and Commitments

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has stressed the urgent need to address this crime, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated:

“We cannot allow this already under-reported crime to slip further into the shadows. Perpetrators must be punished. Investment in recovery from the [COVID] pandemic must tackle the root causes of sexual and gender-based violence.”

Visual Representation

The following images offer a visual insight into the realities of sexual violence in conflict zones, the resilience of survivors, and global efforts to eliminate these crimes:

How You Can Help

Everyone has a role to play in eliminating sexual violence in conflict. You can make a difference by:

• Educating yourself and others: Learn about the scope and impact of sexual violence in conflicts to foster awareness and empathy.
• Advocating for policy change: Support legislation and international policies aimed at prevention and accountability.
• Supporting survivors: Donate to organizations that provide medical, psychological, and legal assistance to survivors.
• Promoting peace and conflict resolution: Encourage peaceful solutions to conflicts to prevent the circumstances that enable sexual violence.

International Efforts and Legal Frameworks

The international community has taken significant steps to address sexual violence in conflict, including:

• UN Security Council