Sexual violence is a type of gender-based violence that is
carried out through sexual means or by targeting one’s gender.
Although it affects women and girls most significantly, men and
boys can also be victims. Syrian women report that rapes are
being committed by multiple perpetrators in public and private,
often in front of the victim’s family, to set a horrifying
example for those who would defy the Assad regime. Though
difficult to quantify, clearly sexual violence is a serious
problem in Syria. A recent report by the International Rescue
Committee notes that many refugees, both male and female, cited
sexual violence as a main reason to flee. “Sexual violence has
profound, cyclical implications on the vitality of civilians and
national stability,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
for Conflict and Stabilization Operations Patricia Haslach who
spoke recently at a University of Toronto conference. “The act
physically, mentally, and emotionally impacts the individual,
but its effects can undermine c