Rape as a weapon of war used in South Sudan

In South Sudan, one of the most brutal and neglected wars are destroying the lives of thousands, particularly women. In less than three weeks in July, the United Nations has documented at least 217 cases of sexual violence in the capital of Juba alone.

Women from various ethnic groups were raped by heavily armed youth believed to be affiliated with the opposition, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein said. Both government troops and opposition forces have been repeatedly accused of using rape as a weapon during the war in South Sudan.

Rape as a weapon of war is a grave violation of international humanitarian and human rights law. Depending on the circumstances, rape can be a war crime and a crime against humanity. The International Criminal Court in The Hague has started to prosecute sexual violence in conflicts.

Source: UN