What Is the Most Common Form of Armed Conflict Facing States Today?

Armed conflicts have been a persistent threat to international peace and security for decades. Despite efforts to prevent and resolve them peacefully, conflicts continue to ravage communities around the world, causing immense human suffering and destruction. Among the various forms of armed conflict, one type stands out as particularly egregious: conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). CRSV refers to the use of sexual violence as a tactic of war, perpetrated against women, men, girls, and boys in the context of an armed conflict.

The United Nations has recognized CRSV as a serious violation of human rights and international humanitarian law. It is no longer seen as an inevitable by-product of war, but rather as a preventable and punishable crime. The UN Security Council has mandated peacekeeping missions to prevent and respond to CRSV in several countries, including the Central African Republic, Mali, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and South Sudan.

Women and girls are disproportionately affected by CRSV, often due to pre-existing patterns of gender discrimination and inequality. This is not only a violation of their human rights but also has long-term consequences for their physical and emotional well-being, as well as their social and economic prospects. Conflict-related sexual violence can also be used as a tactic of violent extremism and terrorism, motivated by political, military, or economic objectives to control territory or resources.

The impact of CRSV is far-reaching and devastating. It inflicts long-term trauma and humiliation on victims, fractures families and the social fabric, triggers displacement, and fuels armed actors' activities. In addition to its humanitarian consequences, CRSV also undermines international peace and security by perpetuating cycles of violence and instability.

Efforts to prevent and respond to CRSV are crucial for protecting civilians from the worst effects of war. Peacekeeping missions must prioritize the prevention and response to CRSV as part of their human rights, child protection, and wider prevention responsibilities. The international community must also support national governments in strengthening their laws and institutions to prevent and punish CRSV.

Ultimately, addressing conflict-related sexual violence requires a comprehensive approach that recognizes its links to broader issues such as gender equality, human rights, and international peace and security. By working together to prevent and respond to CRSV, we can help reduce the suffering of civilians caught in armed conflicts and promote a more peaceful and just world.

What is the most common form of armed conflict facing states today?