International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict
Aug 1, 2026·1 views
An international day honoring survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and calling for an end to its use as a weapon of war.
Date19 June
TopicPeace & Safety
Established2015
Ways to observe this day
Learn about organizations supporting survivors of conflict-related sexual violence
Support campaigns opposing the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war
Share reliable information about survivors' rights and available support
In June 2015, the UN General Assembly designated June 19 as the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. The date commemorates the UN Security Council's adoption of Resolution 1820 on June 19, 2008, which condemned sexual violence as a tactic of war and an obstacle to peacebuilding.
Sexual violence in conflict zones is used as a tool to terrorize and fracture communities, leaving deep psychological and physical scars on survivors, who often face additional social stigma that hinders their access to justice and support. Women and girls are disproportionately affected, though men and boys are also victims of these crimes.
The day honors the courage of survivors and activists who have devoted their lives to fighting these crimes, calls for holding perpetrators accountable, and promotes stronger protection, legal, and psychosocial support mechanisms for victims in conflict zones worldwide.