Sexual violence

Lyudmila Huseynova was held captive by Russian-backed militants for a total of three years and 13 days after being detained for her pro-Ukrainian activism. © Still form a documentary by Lesya Kharchenko and Zhenya Pedin.

Ukraine: Compensating Survivors of War Crimes

Up to 10 million applications are expected to be submitted to the International Register of Damages.

24 Jan 25

Defilement – the crime of sexually abusing a child – is an all-too frequent occurrence in Ugandan schools, perpetrated by teachers or other authority figures. © Marco Di Lauro/Getty Images

The Sexual Assault Crisis Plaguing Ugandan Schools

Why do crimes committed by teachers so often go unpunished?

29 Nov 24

Nana Annette Namata was assaulted by police officers in April 2019, at the gate of the Uganda Police headquarters in Kampala. © D. Asiimwe

These Ugandans Say They Were Sexually Assaulted by the State

Opposition activists abused in detention tell IWPR they face an impossible choice: silence or exile.

28 Nov 24

In Tanzania, female genital mutilation (FGM) has been illegal since 1998, but the practice continues in many parts of the country. © Rowen Smith/Unsplash

Tanzania: Inside the Trade in Body Parts Driving FGM

Secret trade sees “charms” sold on to traders and hunters.

22 Nov 24

Journalists at work in Kyiv's central station. © Pierre Crom/Getty Images

Ukraine: Women Journalists Face Routine Sexual Harassment

Over half of female media workers have been affected, but few dare to speak up.

12 Apr 23

A house destroyed during battles at the start of Russia's full scale invasion, in Chernihiv Oblast, Ukraine. © Ed Ram/Getty Images

Ukraine: First Sexual Violence War Crime Conviction

Russian serviceman sentenced to 12 years in prison in absentia.

29 Nov 22

A woman displaced by war wipes tears during a counselling session as psychologists listen on May 03, 2022 in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine. © John Moore/Getty Images

Ukraine: Rape as a Weapon of War

Legal expert warns that sexual violence is being used as a “tool of psychological terror, intimidation and torture”.

9 Aug 22

Child Rape Case Shocks Afghan Province

Locals accuse government of indifference.

13 Jun 18

Afghan children collect scrap for money. (Photo: Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Afghan Child Labourers Exposed to Abuse

Investigation suggests that large numbers of children are being sexually assaulted.

5 Dec 17

Sierra Leone: Pastors Face Abuse Allegations

With little oversight, some religious leaders said to exploit their positions.

9 Aug 16

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