Reference :
V-P-CD-E-01711
Date :
10/2012
Caption :
North Kivu. A general view from a village where a mass rape attack reportedly occurred. Sexual violence remains high in the Kivu provinces, predominantly affecting women and girls but also, to a lesser degree, men and boys.
Confidentiality level :
public
Publication restrictions :
publication without restrictions
Description :
This incidence is not only linked to the high presence of armed individuals, it is also a reflection of the chronic violence, instability and insecurity that has come to mark the region. Widespread and very serious patterns of violence combine with weakened state and social controls to make individuals more vulnerable to such abuse, while facilitating impunity. The impact of sexual violence is severe, involving both psychological and physical consequences for its victims. It also entails wider consequences, namely for the victim's family and local society, and acts of sexual violence are often also accompanied by other acts of violence. Thus, on top of having to cope with their own emotions, most victims often also find themselves bereaved, displaced or socially isolated. They may have lost or be unable to pursue their economic activities. Yet women, men and children who are victims of such acts have no choice but to push on, and so often overcome immense adversity in order to rebuild their fragmented lives. Psychosocial assistants from the community do their best to welcome and help them to recover through the traditional 'listening houses'. Such houses receive ICRC support in areas where armed conflict is endemic, and do invaluable work to help survivors on their path to recovery.
Original material :
digital
Resolution :
6144x4096
Orientation :
landscape
Colour/B&W :
colour
