29 been brutally disrespected . Human rights values may assist us both to understand the suffering we encounter and find ways to respond to it in a respectful and helpful way .
In sum , human rights standards can ground and inspire our work with men and boys who have been abused ; and provide tools for action . Survivors can see for themselves that the violence they have experienced violates international principles and that it is the responsibility of states and other authorities to provide help , treatment and protection , and eventually to prosecute those responsible . The work we do together to mitigate and heal the impact of sexual violence on mental and physical health promotes human rights too . It contributes to the protection of rights , individually and societally .
KEY TO KNOW
TRAINER ADVICE
Advice to trainers
Human rights are for all , and all individuals are entitled to the human rights laid down in international human rights conventions and declarations . Nevertheless , we know that speaking about the human rights of particular groups may be sensitive in many places . Even claiming that LGBTIQ persons and women have equal rights can be risky and may elicit reprisals . During trainings we can say clearly that human rights are for all , including those who are at special risk , but in some contexts we may need to speak more generically , without necessarily naming specific groups .
REFLECTION QUESTION
Questions to reflect on
• In your work situation , how can you apply human rights to strengthen a survivor ’ s sense of self-worth ?
• What other human rights abuses can be observed or learned about in your work situation ?
2.1.1 Sexual violence as a violation of human rights Aim . To clarify the extent and the consequences of sexual violence .
The term ‘ sexual violence ’ covers all forms of sexual exploitation , sexual assault , and rape . Sexual violence can be any act , attempt , or threat of a sexual nature that can cause physical , mental , or emotional harm or pain . Sexual violence is considered a serious violation of human rights and is a war crime when committed in the context of war or conflict .
In recent years , awareness of sexual violence against women in the context of war and conflict has increased , and important international initiatives have been taken to prohibit it . By contrast , there is little awareness that men and boys are also victims of sexual violence , and little action has been taken to stop it . Since male-on-male crime is a taboo subject in many societies , and male survivors ( like women who have been abused ) are very often stigmatised morally and socially , the problem is widely underestimated and is not well understood . As a result , the great majority of male survivors do not receive the help they need . 17
We do know that many men and boys are exposed to sexual violence , especially in the context of wars and armed conflicts , migration , and imprisonment . People are also at higher risk of sexual violence if their circumstances are unstable as a result of extreme poverty or natural disasters . Some progress has been made . UN Resolution 2467 , which addresses sexual violence against women