Wednesday, 12 May 2021
As members of SEMA, the Global Network of Victims and Survivors to End Wartime Sexual Violence, we are shocked to hear the many reports of sexual violence being used as a weapon of war on a daily basis in Tigray, Ethiopia. The situation in Tigray is deeply disturbing, with many horrific testimonies of women being assaulted by multiple men, in front of family members or in exchange for basic commodities. Many healthcare facilities have been destroyed since the beginning of the conflict in November 2019 and victims are unable to receive the care they urgently need. This tragedy will bear terrible and lasting consequences for all affected women, men, children, families and communities.
SEMA members stand in solidarity with our sisters in Tigray and we condemn the lack of action from the international community. We have been waiting for international attention for too long and we cannot wait any longer. We urge the international community to draw a red line against the use of sexual violence in conflict and effectively implement the UN Security Council Resolution 2467. We want justice for victims in Ethiopia and around the world.
To all the victims in Tigray: you are not alone and together our voices are stronger.
Read the statement here.
