Survivors of conflict-related sexual violence meet to build a global network

Survivors from 12 different countries from all continents join forces to build a global network and draw attention to the use of rape as a weapon of war.

With the support of the Dr. Denis Mukwege Foundation, 22 women assembled this week in Geneva to develop action plans for the creation and strengthening of survivor groups at the national and international level. They will create and lead a platform that enables them to raise their voice and advocate for policy changes and justice.

Exhibition by survivors of conflict-related sexual violence

Part of the the 4-day-meeting was an exhibition in Geneva with Dr. Denis Mukwege, the Grand Duchess of Luxembourg and about 230 visitors. Survivors used music, photography, art and poetry to show their healing process and the transformation from victim to actors of change.

Women from Africa, Asia, Europe, North America and South America took to the stage together to draw attention to the use of rape as a weapon of war and called for the violence to end.

Read more about the movement of conflict-related survivors of sexual violence.

Photo: Mukwege Foundation/Jeppe Schilder