“It’s time to end the use of sexual violence in the Tigray conflict. It’s time that perpetrators are identified & held accountable.” These powerful words from Samri Gebre on Twitter highlight the urgent need for justice for the women and girls of Tigray. As the world marks International Women’s Day, the call for #Justice4TigrayWomenAndGirls grows louder, demanding action from global leaders such as @secBlinken, @eu_eeas, and @_AfricanUnion.
The conflict in Tigray, a region in northern Ethiopia, has been marred by reports of widespread sexual violence against women and girls. The use of rape as a weapon of war has been well-documented, with survivors recounting horrific experiences of abuse and trauma. Despite these atrocities, perpetrators have largely gone unpunished, leaving survivors without justice and accountability.
The Tigray conflict, which began in November 2020, has resulted in a humanitarian crisis with millions of people in need of urgent assistance. The ongoing violence and insecurity have made it difficult for aid organizations to reach those in need, exacerbating the suffering of the most vulnerable, including women and children.
On this International Women’s Day, it is crucial to shine a spotlight on the plight of Tigray women and girls and to demand justice for the atrocities they have endured. The call for #Justice4TigrayWomenAndGirls is a rallying cry for global solidarity and action to end sexual violence in conflict and hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes.
As the world commemorates International Women’s Day, it is important to remember that gender-based violence is a violation of human rights and a barrier to gender equality. Women and girls in conflict-affected areas are particularly vulnerable to violence, exploitation, and abuse, making it essential to prioritize their protection and support.
The international community must step up efforts to address the root causes of sexual violence in conflict, including gender inequality and impunity for perpetrators. This includes supporting survivors with access to essential services such as healthcare, psychosocial support, and legal assistance, as well as ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
In addition to calling for justice for Tigray women and girls, it is essential to support efforts to prevent and respond to sexual violence in conflict globally. This includes advocating for the implementation of international legal frameworks such as the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security, which emphasizes the importance of women’s participation in peace and security processes.
On this International Women’s Day, let us stand in solidarity with the women and girls of Tigray and all survivors of sexual violence in conflict. Let us amplify their voices, demand justice for their suffering, and work together to create a world where all women and girls are free from violence and discrimination.
Together, we can make a difference and ensure that the call for #Justice4TigrayWomenAndGirls is heard and acted upon by global leaders and policymakers. The time to end sexual violence in conflict is now, and the time to hold perpetrators accountable is long overdue. Let us join forces to make this a reality and create a more just and equal world for all..
“It’s time to end the use of sexual violence in the #Tigray conflict. It’s time that perpetrators are identified &held accountable” #TigrayFamine These #International_Womens_Day we must give #Justice4TigrayWomenAndGirls @secBlinken @eu_eeas @_AfricanUnion/ https://t.co/ZPh4aR5UDQ
— Samri Gebre (@SamriGeber12) March 9, 2024
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SamriGeber12 said “It’s time to end the use of sexual violence in the #Tigray conflict. It’s time that perpetrators are identified &held accountable” #TigrayFamine These #International_Womens_Day we must give #Justice4TigrayWomenAndGirls @secBlinken @eu_eeas @_AfricanUnion/
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