Global Commitments to Victims of Sexual Violence in War Zones Should be Renewed

Despite progress made in the area, social obstacles as well as access to justice continue to be barriers to women of sexual violence in war zones. The way in which military resources are currently allocated requires re-examination as a way in which this problem can be addressed, according to the UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict. Humanitarian workers in conflict zones globally are reporting daily cases of rape and gang rape during the pandemic. In light of this, there should be renewed vigor with which sanctions for these crimes are pursued. State representatives have come forward in acknowledging, amongst other factors, the role of COVID-19 in aggravating sexual violence and the way in which sexual violence is still being used as a tool in warfare. There remains more to be done on an international as well as domestic level to create the platform with which these victims can feel more confident in reporting these crimes as well as seeing justice served.