Rape is a Weapon of War
The UN has classified rape as a war tactic.
It described sexual violence as "a tactic of war to humiliate, dominate, instil fear in, disperse and/or forcibly relocate civilian members of a community or ethnic group".
As far as it goes this is a historic step. But it’s not just during a large organised conflict though is it?
During the debate in the council, Mr Ban said: "Responding to this silent war against women and girls requires leadership at the national level."
Woulsn’t you like to see this extended to rape anywhere, at any time?
US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said the world now recognised that sexual violence profoundly affected not only the health and safety of women, but the economic and social stability of their nations.
Look a little closer to home Ms Rice, it’s happening on your own doorstep.
But, the fact that it’s the UN means it’s an international statement and a step in the right direction. It might make a difference to women in wor torn regions even if it doesn’t help the women who live near you and I, and Condoleezza Rice. Who knows, maybe this will mark the start of a change of attitudes, or maybe not.
Then there’s this at the end that kinda steal all the thunder of the entire resolution…
Sometimes women are even raped by peacekeepers who are supposed to be protecting them.
What hope is there when the people meant to be enforcing this are doing it too?
