If we can show, which I think we've done, that some groups do not engage in sexual violence, then it is not true that this is an inevitable aspect of war, and thus. One key finding that Professor Wood emphasized is that, based on existing data, we can conclude that sexual violence is not an inevitable part of conflict.
Professor Elisabeth Wood has carried out significant analysis of existing data to work towards developing an understanding of key patterns and characteristics that can help in better identifying why sexual violence occurs.
Siva Methil, Training Officer, Policy and Best Practices Service, UN Department for Peacekeeping Operations.Elisabeth Jean Wood, Professor of Political Science, International and Area Studies, Yale University.Doris Schopper, Director of CERAH and member of the ICRC Assembly.There is now a need to connect the wealth of research and practical experience to build effective prevention strategies. In recent years, a number of research studies in political science, anthropology, psychology or military ethics have greatly contributed to a deeper understanding of the causes of conflict-related sexual violence. Weapon bearers may commit sexual violence for various reasons – from strategic to opportunistic ones. The discussion focused on conflict-related sexual violence, committed by state or non-state armed actors involved in an armed conflict. The conference was also part of the third ICRC Conference Cycle on " Generating respect for the law", an ongoing reflection on how to better prevent violations of the law applicable in armed conflict. The event took place on the occasion of the second session of CERAH's thematic seminar on " Sexual Violence in Conflict Settings and in Emergencies", and provided an opportunity to feature the recent publication of the International Review of the Red Cross on " Sexual Violence in Armed Conflict".