Sexual Violence in African Conflicts [November 25, 2009]   [open pdf - 388KB]

"This report focuses on current conflicts in Africa in which sexual violence is reported to be widespread or systematic. It describes the context in which such violence takes place, selected cases where it is currently occurring, and U.S. policy responses. It concludes with a discussion of potential policy considerations for Congress, including the design and effectiveness of U.S. programs; coordination between agencies and between international donors; and the question of whether policy responses to sexual violence can be separated from the broader context in which such violence occurs. The report includes a detailed case study of DRC [Democratic Republic of Congo], which has drawn particular attention from the Obama Administration and the 111th Congress."