Women and Conflict

In situations of war or violent conflict, all civilians suffer. However, there are many specific, gender-related human rights issues which organizations involved in relief, development, and emergency work in conflict situations need to address. This book concentrates on gender issues in situations of military and civil strife, and examines the effects of armed conflict on women's lives and the appalling situation of many women refugees and displaced. But other aspects of conflict and exploitation which confront women are also examined: violence in the domestic spheres, the daily infringement of their basic rights, the threat or experience of sexual abuse, the increased stress and workload for women which result from cuts in state services. However, women are not passive victims, and many of the articles in this issue show how they are in the forefront of work for change, peace, security, and equitable gender relations - essential to the reduction of conflict at all levels.