A Theory of Change for Addressing Conflict-Related Sexual Violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) in conflict can take many forms, including conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). CRSV is an abuse of human rights and when perpetrated in the context of and associated with an armed conflict, is a serious violation of international humanitarian law and a war crime.

CRSV can lead to death and those who survive it experienced multiple forms of harm, such as serious and lifelong injuries, trauma, and distress. Survivors’ families and communities are also affected, including from the discrimination, stigma, and lack of access to quality services and support for survivors. CRSV undermines poverty reduction, gender equality, conflict prevention and resolution, and fuels conflict.

Another area of support often required and desired by survivors of CRSV is social and economic integration to live as active members of their communities. Thus far, there have been few instances where cash transfers in emergencies have been used for protective outcomes, including for survivors of violence, but there are increasing calls for the inclusion of economic responses to GBV. However, a recent example of the use of cash in response to GBV is among crisis-affected populations was undertaken in Ecuador where the Women’s Refugee Commission (WRC) and CARE worked with Fundación Quimera and The Latin American Platform of Sex Workers (PLAPERTS) to include cash distribution as a part of a holistic GBV service delivery package.

Read more about WRC’s work on cash and livelihoods.