Sexual Violence Against Men and Boys in Conflict and Forced Displacement: Implications for the Health Sector
Publication Date
December 11, 2017
Publication Type
Journal Article
Topic(s)
Conflict, Public Health
Summary
Sexual violence against men and boys is commonplace in many conflict-affected settings and may be frequent in relation to forced displacement as well. Adolescent boys, forming the majority of unaccompanied minors globally, are a particularly vulnerable group. Yet sensitised health services for adult and adolescent male sexual violence survivors are scarce, and barriers to accessing care remain high. We describe current challenges and gaps in the provision of health care for male survivors in settings affected by conflict and forced displacement, and provide suggestions on how to improve service provision and uptake.
Key Takeaways
- Sexual violence against men and boys is prevalent in conflict zones and situations of forced displacement, yet healthcare services tailored for these groups are limited, particularly for adolescent boys who are highly vulnerable.
- Despite the prevalence of sexual violence against male survivors, there is a significant lack of awareness and sensitization among healthcare providers, leading to inadequate care and support for the affected individuals.
- The physical and mental health consequences of sexual violence on male survivors are severe, including sexually transmitted infections, physical trauma, and psychological issues such as PTSD and depression. Barriers to accessing care, such as stigma and inadequate health protocols, further exacerbate these issues.
- There is an urgent need for more inclusive and sensitized healthcare systems that recognize and address the needs of male survivors, alongside existing efforts for female survivors. This includes greater precision in data collection and the establishment of effective referral systems for male and LGBTQ+ survivors.
- Future humanitarian efforts must ensure that protocols and training include men and boys, addressing gender-based violence myths, and ensuring access to specialized care, such as surgical and psychological support for those with severe trauma.
Suggested Citation
Chynoweth, S., Freccero, J., & Touquet, H. (2017)
Sexual Violence Against Men and Boys in Conflict and Forced Displacement: Implications for the Health Sector.
Human Rights Center, UC Berkeley. https://humanrights.berkeley.edu/publications/sexual-violence-against-men-and-boys-conflict-and-forced-displacement-implications/
