The Root Causes of Sexual Violence

Sexual violence is an issue that affects all people regardless of age, culture, faith or gender identity. Whether it’s rape, intimate partner abuse, stalking or other types of sexual violence, the root cause is power, control and hostility. Understanding this helps us focus our prevention efforts.

The term “sexual violence” refers to any type of unwanted behaviour that includes physical or psychological pressure, coercion or manipulation and does not have consent. It can be perpetrated by someone close to you, such as a partner or ex-partner, or it could be committed by a stranger who approaches you in public. Sexual violence can also be used against people who are vulnerable, including children, the elderly and disabled people. It can take many forms, such as:

Survivors of sexual violence are often subject to stigma and discrimination which can prevent them from seeking help and reporting their experience. This can be especially difficult for women who have been subjected to sex attacks or gang rape, as it is believed that they must have somehow invited the attacker. The victims may also have friends or family who refuse to support them, and even blame the victim for what has happened.

This is called victim blaming and is a form of sexual assault and harassment. It suggests that the sexual assault is the victim’s fault because they were dressed provocatively, drinking or using drugs or were out at night alone. The ICRC condemns this stance as part of a culture of gender-based violence (SGBV).

It is also important to note that sexual violence and harassment is not just about “sex”, but can be any behaviour of a sexual nature that causes the person to feel upset, scared or ashamed. This can include any kind of unwanted sexual attention such as groping, body slapping or sending images of a person’s private parts.

The vast majority of sexual violence perpetrators are someone known to the victim, either by their name or through social circles. This can be the case for intimate partner sex violence or acquaintance rape. It is thought that these perpetrators see sex as “scoring” and believe that “no” can be changed to “yes” with a bit of pressure, such as threats, manipulation or intimidation.

Sexual and sex-based violence can also occur in the context of armed conflict or disasters and in situations of mass migration. These instances are considered violations of international humanitarian law and the ICRC is working to address them by raising awareness, providing care and assistance, and ensuring that laws and policies are in place to protect the most vulnerable. Ultimately, the best way to end sexual violence and its effects is through primary prevention. This means challenging attitudes and behaviours that encourage inappropriate interpersonal interactions and instead promoting effective communication skills, accountability and respect.