Important Days📖 3 min read

International Day for Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

The world observes a special day to highlight the severe issue of sexual violence during conflicts. This day aims to raise awareness and seek justice for victims.

Source: GNews World Day
Summary of News

The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is observed annually on June 19th. The United Nations General Assembly established this day in 2015. Its main goal is to raise awareness about conflict-related sexual violence. It also honors the victims and survivors of such violence worldwide. The day calls for an end to these atrocities and supports those working to eradicate them. Sexual violence is often used as a tactic of war, terror, and torture in conflict zones. It affects individuals, families, and entire communities, causing long-lasting physical and psychological trauma. The UN Security Council Resolution 1820 (2008) recognized conflict-related sexual violence as a threat to international peace and security. This resolution was a key step towards addressing the issue globally. The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict serves as a reminder of the urgent need for prevention, protection, and accountability.

Why It Matters

This day is important for competitive exams under General Awareness, particularly for topics related to International Organizations, Human Rights, and Social Issues. Aspirants should know the date, its purpose, and the UN's role in addressing conflict-related sexual violence. It links to UPSC GS Paper II (International Relations, Social Justice) and SSC General Awareness (Important Days, UN). Understanding this topic helps in answering questions on global human rights initiatives and international peace efforts.

Key Points for Exam
  • The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is observed on June 19th each year.
  • The United Nations General Assembly established this day on June 19, 2015.
  • The day aims to raise awareness about conflict-related sexual violence and honor victims.
  • UN Security Council Resolution 1820 (2008) recognized sexual violence as a threat to international peace.
  • The UN Secretary-General's Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict leads efforts in this area.
  • Conflict-related sexual violence is often used as a tactic of war and terror.
Important Keywords Explained
Conflict-Related Sexual Violenceconcept

This refers to rape, sexual slavery, forced prostitution, forced pregnancy, forced abortion, forced sterilization, forced marriage, and any other form of sexual violence of comparable gravity perpetrated against women, men, girls or boys directly or indirectly linked to a conflict.

United Nations General Assemblyorganization

The main deliberative, policymaking, and representative organ of the United Nations. It was established in 1945 and is headquartered in New York City. All 193 UN member states are represented in the General Assembly, with each state having one vote.

UN Security Council Resolution 1820act

Adopted in 2008, this landmark resolution recognized sexual violence as a tactic of war and a threat to international peace and security. It called for an end to such violence and for perpetrators to be held accountable.

Additional Facts & Context
1The first International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict was observed in 2016.
2The UN Secretary-General's Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict was established in 2009.
3Over 50 countries have reported conflict-related sexual violence since 2000.
4The UN Action Against Sexual Violence in Conflict (UN Action) is a network of 13 UN entities working to end sexual violence in conflict.
Examiner's Tip

Exams often ask about important international days, their dates, and the organizations behind them. Focus on the specific date (June 19), the UN's role, and key resolutions like UNSC 1820.

🧠
Memory Trick

Remember 'June 19' for 'Justice for 19th century's forgotten victims' of sexual violence in conflict, linking the date to the cause.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict observed?

The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is observed annually on June 19th. This date was chosen to commemorate the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1820 (2008).

What is the main purpose of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict?

The main purpose of this day is to raise awareness about conflict-related sexual violence, honor the victims and survivors worldwide, and call for an end to these atrocities. It also aims to support those working to eradicate such violence.

Which UN resolution recognized sexual violence as a threat to international peace?

UN Security Council Resolution 1820, adopted in 2008, recognized sexual violence as a tactic of war and a threat to international peace and security. This resolution was a crucial step in addressing the issue globally.

Connected Concepts / Topics
Get direct updates on TelegramDaily current affairs + quiz + monthly PDFs — 100% freeJoin Channel →