Technology can be a powerful tool to support efforts aimed at ending conflict-related sexual violence. It can help communities to stay safe. It can document crimes and hold perpetrators accountable. It supports survivors in receiving the necessary care and justice they need. However, technology alone is not enough. Policymakers, governments, donors, and the international community must collaborate. This collaboration ensures technology is used ethically, appropriately, and safely to support those affected by conflict-related sexual violence.

According to the UNHCR, at the end of 2024, an estimated 123.2 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced. This displacement was due to persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations and events seriously disturbing the public order. In many of these situations, sexual violence is used as a weapon of war, creating additional trauma for those affected.

Conflict-related sexual violence is a widespread and alarming phenomenon that has devastating effects on individuals, communities, and societies at large. It is a form of gender-based violence. It is defined as any act of sexual violence. This includes rape, sexual slavery, forced prostitution, forced pregnancy, forced sterilization, and any other comparable form of sexual violence. These acts are perpetrated against women, men, boys, and girls before, during, or after an armed conflict. It is a human rights violation that inflicts physical harm. It also causes psychological and social harm. Often, it leads to long-term trauma, stigmatization, and exclusion.

Over the past decade, the United Nations has verified over 51,000 cases of conflict-related sexual violence. There was a staggering 50% increase in cases in 2023 alone. Women and girls made up 95% of the victims, and children were affected in nearly a third of cases. Recent surges in places like Sudan, Haiti, Myanmar, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo highlight the growing crisis. Heartbreakingly, these numbers barely capture the full scale, as many cases go unreported, and justice remains rare.

The prevalence of conflict-related sexual violence calls for urgent and effective responses that can prevent, protect, and respond to survivors. One of the innovative and promising approaches to address this issue is using technology.

Technology is becoming increasingly important in dealing with conflict-related sexual violence. This trend has gained momentum in recent years. It refers to the use of digital devices, tools, and applications. These technologies enhance prevention, protection, and response measures. They address the complex challenges of this issue. There are many examples of how technology can be used to combat conflict-related sexual violence.

1. Early Warning Systems

Technology can be used to monitor social media and other online platforms. It can alert authorities to potential conflicts or violence before it escalates. This helps to generate timely responses to incidents of violence and promotes greater public awareness of conflict-related gender-based violence. Early warning systems can track the movements of armed groups. This tracking allows for the deployment of peacekeeping forces to areas where conflict-related sexual violence is likely to occur.

2. Mobile Alert System

A mobile alert system is a tool that is capable of sending up-to-date information regarding cases of sexual violence in conflict zones to organizations that specialize in gender-based violence. The system leverages available technologies such as social media channels, messaging systems, and even phone hotlines for immediate assistance. They can provide survivors with access to support hotlines, medical services, legal aid, information on their rights, the services available to them, and personal safety tips. This innovative approach will help improve support for survivors and promote justice while increasing the responsiveness of authorities.

3. Data Analytics

Big data analytics and machine learning technology can be employed to monitor online activity and analyze evidence of sexual violence. Experts in gender-based violence can analyze data from social media conversations, chat rooms, and online groups. They gain insights into the patterns of behavior. They can also locate and track sexual predators. This provides a chance to better understand the incidence and nature of such violence. With these insights, experts can design more effective interventions.

4. Digital Storytelling and Awareness-Raising Campaigns

Technology is increasingly being used to support storytelling and awareness-raising campaigns. These initiatives educate communities and governments about the effects of conflict-related sexual violence. They highlight its legal and ethical implications and explain how to prevent it. These campaigns often use social media platforms, videos, podcasts, and infographics. They aim to promote a better understanding of the issues. The campaigns also challenge stereotypes and promote gender equity.

5. Innovative Databases

Technology has led to the creation of innovative databases. These databases store information on perpetrators and survivors, and they act as reference points for legal counsel. Information about sexual violence cases can be shared on a global stage through these databases. This sharing leads to more resources and knowledge sharing. Ultimately, it drives prevention efforts. One example is the ongoing initiative of SafeCity. SafeCity maps cases of sexual harassment and abuse in public spaces. This mapping provides heat maps of high-risk places.

6. Lastly, technology can be used to coordinate and mobilize communities in the fight against conflict-related sexual violence. Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook help organize awareness campaigns. They are also useful for protests and other forms of activism. These platforms can also be used to connect survivors with each other, creating support networks that can provide emotional and other forms of support.

Challenges and Risks of Technology

However, the use of technology to address conflict-related sexual violence is not without challenges and risks. Several key challenges and risks exist. These include the digital divide and the protection and privacy of survivors. There is also the accuracy and reliability of data to consider. Additionally, the potential for misuse and abuse of technology poses a risk. Lastly, there is the potential for unintended consequences. For instance, the digital divide refers to the unequal distribution of access, skills, and resources to use technology. This inequality can amplify existing social inequalities and lead to marginalization. Survivors may face risks of re-victimization and retaliation. They might also experience further harm if their information is not protected and their privacy is not respected.

Moreover, the accuracy and reliability of data can be compromised by the biases and limitations of technology. Social and cultural factors also shape the reporting and documentation of conflict-related sexual violence. Finally, the potential for misuse and abuse of technology can lead to unintended consequences. These include the normalization of surveillance, the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes, and the erosion of trust in institutions.

Human Rights-based and Gender-sensitive Approach

To address these challenges and risks, it is crucial to adopt a human rights-based approach. This approach must also be gender-sensitive when using technology to address conflict-related sexual violence. This approach should prioritize the empowerment and protection of survivors. It should ensure the accountability and prevention of perpetrators. Additionally, it should promote evidence-based and participatory interventions. It should also recognize the diversity and intersectionality of survivors’ backgrounds and experiences. It must consider the power dynamics and inequalities that shape the use of technology in conflict-related sexual violence contexts.

Additionally, this approach should involve the meaningful and inclusive participation of survivors, communities, and civil society organizations. Governments and other stakeholders must also participate. This should happen throughout all stages of the design, implementation, and evaluation of technological interventions.

In conclusion, using technology to address conflict-related sexual violence is promising and innovative. It can enhance prevention, protection, and response interventions. However, it is also a complex and challenging issue that requires careful consideration of the risks, challenges, and opportunities involved. To harness technology effectively to address conflict-related sexual violence, we must adopt a human rights-based and gender-sensitive approach. This approach should prioritize the empowerment and protection of survivors. It should focus on holding perpetrators accountable and preventing future offenses. Additionally, it should promote evidence-based and participatory interventions. By doing so, we can leverage the power and potential of technology to advance justice, security, and dignity for all.

This June 19, on the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, we recognize the profound harm caused by this crime. There is a critical need to break the cycle. We must support survivors and protect future generations from its devastation.

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