Gaps in legal recognition and access to justice for male victims of conflict-related sexual violence

Abstract

This thesis explores the topic of sexual violence against men in armed conflict by answering the research question of “To what extent does the international legal framework and case law adequately reflect the prevalent forms, contexts, and practical realities of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) against men?” The research aims to identify the main patterns of CRSV perpetrated against men, as well as challenges in achieving justice for male victims. To achieve this aim, the representation of male victims in international legal instruments and case law involving male victims is examined and later analyzed in the context of real-life reports from various conflict regions around the world.