Combating Sexual Exploitation in Armed Conflicts: A Whole-of-Society Approach [fr]
Alongside with the French Embassy and the Permanent Mission of France to the UN, the French Team in Austria hosted an impactful round-table event to reflect on the topic of combating sexual exploitation in armed conflicts.
Organised on the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, on june 19th, this event brought together leading experts from various fields to discuss and strategize on this critical issue.
The round-table facilitated a comprehensive dialogue across multiple sectors, focusing on diplomacy, justice, and civil society. The discussions highlighted the importance of international relations in preventing and responding to sexual violence in conflict, legal frameworks and prosecutorial strategies to hold perpetrators accountable, and the vital role of NGOs and community organizations in supporting survivors and preventing exploitation.
The event was introduced by Mr. Samir Rizvo, UNODC advisor on trafficking in persons and sexual violence in conflict (Kyiv), and Ms. & Kendall Alaimo a lived-experience artist and educator (USA), who set the stage with compelling insights.
Our distinguished panelists included :
- Ms. Petra Bayr, Member of the Austrian National Council; Ms. Sophie Havard, First Deputy Prosecutor and Head of the Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Unit at the National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office (Paris)
- Ms. Heather Wokusch, Executive Director of MESPERO: Impact for Resilience, Human Rights Activist, Psychotherapist, and Consultant;
- Ms. Ioana Bauer, Chairwoman of the Romanian CSO eLiberare, which fights against sexual exploitation.
- Dr. Wolfgang Spadinger, Director and Deputy National Anti-Trafficking Coordinator in Austria, skillfully moderated the panel.
Read more about their background here :
Presentation of the keynote speakers :
- (PDF - 760.1 kb)
Presentation of the panelists :
- (PDF - 585.8 kb)
The event underscored the necessity of a whole-of-society approach to effectively combat sexual violence in armed conflicts. Discussions were enriched by diverse perspectives, fostering collaborative efforts to create impactful solutions. The evening concluded with a reception, allowing participants to further exchange ideas and build networks.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all organizers and participants for their dedication and contributions.
Together, we can advance the fight against sexual violence in conflicts and support those affected.
See pictures bellow :
