International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict
The United Nations recognizes a range of acts as conflict-related sexual violence, including rape, sexual slavery, forced prostitution and marriage, trafficking, forced pregnancy and abortion, and even forced sterilization.
Every year on June 19th, we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. This year’s awareness is about the horrific acts of sexual violence used as a weapon of war and the targeting of healthcare facilities and workers who offer critical support to survivors.
Survivors of sexual violence need access to a range of medical care, including emergency contraception, treatment for sexually transmitted infections, and mental health services. When healthcare is attacked, these services become scarce or unavailable, leaving survivors with nowhere to turn.
Let us pledge to eradicate this scourge, stand in solidarity with survivors, and reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding hospitals and healthcare facilities during conflicts.
Chief Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma.
First Lady of Imo State, Founder of GoodHope Flourish Foundation, and Secretary of Renewed Hope Initiative
