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Wartime Sexual Violence, Social Stigmatization and Humanitarian Aid: Survey Evidence from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Author

Listed:
  • Carlo Koos
  • Summer Lindsey

Abstract

Sexual violence by armed groups is common in civil wars. Qualitative studies have shown that victims and their families experience social stigmatization. Stigmatization is viewed as a central mechanism to social exclusion and disintegration impeding post-conflict social, political, and economic recovery. We provide new theory on the social conditions under which rape-related stigma intensifies and decreases. Drawing on an original population-based survey in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, we find that victims and their families experience higher levels of stigma compared to unaffected families and these effects are dependent on community attitudes and norms. Furthermore, we find that humanitarian support interventions designed to address the social nature of stigma can reduce stigma. Our article significantly expands prior knowledge on a central mechanism in post-conflict recovery by providing a refined theory on wartime rape-related stigma and the role of humanitarian aid in mitigating negative effects based on representative data.

Suggested Citation

  • Carlo Koos & Summer Lindsey, 2022. "Wartime Sexual Violence, Social Stigmatization and Humanitarian Aid: Survey Evidence from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 66(6), pages 1037-1065, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jocore:v:66:y:2022:i:6:p:1037-1065
    DOI: 10.1177/00220027211064259
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Peterman, A. & Palermo, T. & Bredenkamp, C., 2011. "Estimates and determinants of sexual violence against women in the Democratic Republic of Congo," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 101(6), pages 1060-1067.
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    Cited by:

    1. Carolyn Chisadza & Matthew W. Clance & Romuald Meango & Charl van Schoor, 2025. "Women's Agency in Conflict Settings: Evidence from Peace Agreements," Working Papers 202510, University of Pretoria, Department of Economics.

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