Lessons from Bosnia’s War and the Implications for Ukraine
A new expert report emphasizes the urgency to learn from the post-war mistakes in Bosnia to prevent prolonging the trauma experienced by Ukrainian victims of rape and conflict-related sexual violence.
Evidence of Sexual Violence in the Ukrainian Conflict
Global independent investigators, encompassing the United Nations and Ukrainian prosecutors, are showcasing mounting evidence of Russian troops using sexual violence as a tool of terror in Ukraine. This tactic mirrors the widespread rape perpetrated by the Bosnian Serb army during the 1990s Bosnian war, a claim which Russia denies.
Upcoming Discussion in UK Parliament
The report, prepared by the US-based New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy, is slated for release and subsequent discussion in the UK Parliament soon.
Priority: Addressing Victims’ Needs
The report underscores the need to prioritize the victims in Ukraine, drawing parallels to Bosnia, where many waited for years before revealing their traumatic experiences and where the vast majority of sexual crimes remain unaddressed.
Involving Victims in Peace Processes
Emily Prey, a primary author of the report, stresses the necessity of incorporating survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in peace negotiations. Highlighting the Dayton Peace Accords that concluded the Bosnian war, she emphasized that the absence of survivors in discussions led to an unsustainable peace.
Broadening the Understanding of Sexual Violence Victims
Prey underlines the importance of recognizing that sexual violence impacts all genders. Men, who have been victims in the Bosnian war, are only beginning to acknowledge their experiences, and similar patterns are emerging in Ukraine.
Recognizing Children Born of Wartime Rape
There is a crucial need to acknowledge children born as a result of wartime rape. Prey highlights the extensive struggles faced by such children, known as ‘Invisible Children’ in Bosnia.
Prosecuting Perpetrators: An International Responsibility
The report emphasizes the role of Ukraine’s allies in prosecuting offenders, either through the UN’s Genocide Convention or under universal jurisdiction, allowing the prosecution of crimes against international law across territories.
Existing Efforts in Prosecuting Atrocities
The International Criminal Court has initiated proceedings against alleged Russian war crimes in Ukraine, with an arrest warrant issued for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Numerous countries are independently investigating alleged Russian offenses.
Immediate Support for Victims
Prey accentuates the essence of immediate aid to victims, encompassing psychological aid, health care, and legal support. Given that legal proceedings can extend over decades, survivors require immediate support to navigate their daily challenges.
