State security sector engagement and conflict-related sexual violence

Some of the most important advances in efforts to address conflict-related sexual violence turn on the role of the security sector in combating sexual violence and creating innovative ways for domestic security forces to prevent, address and provide justice to victims of conflict-related sexual violence. This paper assesses achievements, pitfalls and gaps related to the security sector’s role in combating conflict-related sexual violence during and after war. It primarily examines how United Nations peacekeeping operations serve as a major source of efforts to implement security sector reform and an effective vehicle for combating conflict-related sexual violence, but in some cases also perpetrate sexual exploitation and abuse of civilians in ways that can undermine their own ability to address conflict-related sexual violence. The paper also looks at innovations that seek to address conflict-related sexual violence through the inclusion of female peacekeepers. In addition, it examines how the post-conflict period may provide significant opportunities for addressing conflict-related sexual violence through security sector reform. Finally, the paper concludes by outlining future avenues for scholarly research and policy innovation on conflict-related sexual violence, such as addressing how conflict-related sexual violence affects men and boys, as well as sexual and gender minorities.