The Subcommittee on International Human Rights of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (the Subcommittee) studied sexual violence against women used systematically as a weapon of war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during the 1^st session of the 41^st Parliament. This study took into consideration the evidence and documentation received during its study of sexual assault on women and children during peacekeeping operations, in fragile states and/or in situations of conflict during the previous Parliament.[1] The Subcommittee heard from witnesses and received written submissions as part of its study. Based on the evidence it received and on publicly available information, the Subcommittee has agreed to report the following findings and recommendations to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development.

The Subcommittee’s study focused on sexual violence related to armed conflict and the post-conflict period, in situations of political instability and repression and in the context of natural disasters. In such situations of conflict and crisis, state and non-state actors have used sexual violence deliberately to terrorize, destabilize and control groups and communities. Sexual violence can hinder economic and social development in the short and long terms and also has the potential to contribute to the destabilization of states.[2] The phenomenon has a profound impact on the human rights of survivors, most of whom are women and girls. The Subcommittee’s study also revealed a growing understanding of the use of sexual violence against men and boys in similar contexts, although this phenomenon is less well documented.

This report begins by examining the nature, causes and consequences of sexual violence in times of conflict and crisis. It then considers a case study of the situation in the eastern DRC, which has been called the “rape capital of the world”.[3] The report also examines international responses to sexual violence in conflict and identifies ways in which Canada can continue to be a leader in these international efforts. Finally, the report sets out the Subcommittee’s conclusions and its recommendations to the Government of Canada.