The issue of sexual and gender-based violence in conflict affected environments is the topic of a new research paper produced by the Australian Civil-Military Centre (ACMC) launched by Defence today.
The paper, Conflict–related sexual and gender-based violence: an introductory overview to support prevention and support efforts seeks to break stereotypes and provide answers to the most vexing questions surrounding this significant issue.
Vice Chief of the Defence Force Air Marshal Mark Binskin launched the paper at a Civil Military Leaders Workshop held in Canberra.
“While well known, sexual and gender-based violence around conflict is complex. Often the subject matter itself is so overwhelming that it discourages consideration of an effective means to respond and prevent its occurrence in conflict and post-conflict settings,” Air Marshal Binskin said.
“Crucially, throughout this paper, information is provided about what is being done to prevent and respond to this type of violence, citing international, regional and domestic efforts. By sharing operational research we can examine how best to implement gender considerations within international responses, and assess the impact on the lives of women and girls, men and boys in conflict and post-conflict situations."
ACMC Executive Director, Dr Alan Ryan, said that by sharing operational research, the ACMC can examine how best to implement gender considerations within international responses.
“New tools, research and on-the-ground initiatives are being developed regularly, with a focus on how to constructively respond to and prevent sexual violence,” Dr Ryan said.
“This paper provides civilian, military and police around the world with an overview of sexual and gender-based violence as it applies to conflict and post-conflict environments. With its focus on improving understanding, the paper aims to support efforts to prevent and respond to sexual violence.”
A copy of the report is available at: www.acmc.gov.au.
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