The Role of Non- and Quasi-Judicial Accountability Mechanisms in Addressing a Wide Range of Needs of Victims of Sexual Violence as a Weapon of War

Abstract

This chapter turns to the potential contribution of quasi- or non-judicial post-conflict justice processes in complementing international criminal justice for addressing the needs of victims of conflict-related sexual violence. Drawing on insights from the previous chapters, it first analyses how effective redress for victims of sexual violence in post-conflict settings should be conceived in light of the complexity of the victims' experiences and the legacy of these crimes in communities. The discussion emphasises the potential transformative effects of truth-seeking processes and other community-based transitional justice measures on the often challenging social dimension of sexual violence as a weapon of war. The author argues, however, that whilst it is necessary to integrate these crimes into domestic transitional justice processes, this should be done alongside embedding appropriate measures to facilitate the participation of victims without running the risk of being exposed to further harm.