Sexual Violence – A Pervasive Problem That Affects Individuals and Communities

Sexual violence is a pervasive problem that affects individuals and entire communities. It is often ignored or under-reported, and it has long-term psychological and physical impacts on survivors. The needs of victims are complex and multifaceted, and require an interdisciplinary response involving government agencies, humanitarian organisations, community groups, service providers and the victim-survivor themselves.

In armed conflict, sexual violence is widespread and often overlooked as an unavoidable consequence of war. It can affect women, men and children of all ages and backgrounds, and has a profound impact on their lives. It can lead to a variety of repercussions, including stigma and discrimination, poverty, mental illness, family disruption, health issues and even displacement.

A significant portion of rapes and sexual assaults are committed by people the victim knows or trusts. This is especially true of gang rapes. Perpetrators often see their actions as a way to gain control, power and domination over their victims. They may also perceive the use of force as legitimate, especially if they are perceived to have been acting in self defence.

Survivors of sexual violence can feel a range of emotions and experiences after the traumatic event, including anxiety, depression, guilt, shame, anger and fear. They can struggle to make sense of what happened and may have difficulty focusing on work, relationships or caring for their children. They can experience physical effects such as chronic pelvic pain, gynecologic problems and the risk of sexually transmitted infections. They may find it difficult to sleep and eat well. They can become isolated and withdraw from social activities, or they may develop eating disorders.

There are a number of myths about sexual violence that can contribute to victim-blame and reduce a survivor’s sense of safety and wellbeing. For example, some people think that if a man does not fight off an attack that it is his fault because he should have done more to protect himself. Others believe that if a man or woman feels arousal or orgasms during an assault it means they enjoyed the attack. But this is a false assumption based on the idea that people can control their sexual responses.

It is essential that victims of sexual violence and abuse receive help after an incident, regardless of whether they intend to take legal action or not. This support should include emotional and practical assistance such as accommodation, medical care, education and employment support. It should also involve help to break down the barriers to reporting such a serious crime, including ensuring that victims are not made to feel ashamed of making a report.

Survivors of sexual violence need to be supported by their friends, families and wider communities as they try to come to terms with what has happened to them. Depending on how the violence was perpetrated, this can include help to understand the impact of cultural norms and perceptions of masculinity and femininity. In addition, they need to know that what has happened was not their fault.