A major factor in crimes of sexual violence during conflict worldwide, is widespread impunity   In the context of the Bosnian conflict this is particularly acute, despite the work of the ICTY and the national courts. There are many contributing factors:  the focus by courts on the conduct of the woman  which alienates those who would otherwise come forward;  the failure of law to accurately reflect their experience of sexual violence; the  lack of effective protection; and in more general terms, the result of a failure of  policies to provide social and economic rights, vital if women are to have the ability to participate in  formal justice mechanisms.

Through meetings and briefings from women and women’s organizations from the region, and also with government and representatives of UN agencies, the EU and OSCE, the SRSG will be able to gain valuable insight into post conflict accountability mechanisms and  the importance of policies and budgets which  address the social position of women as a factor in determining whether women can particapate in formal justice.  This information can inform her country-level, regional and international advocacy and will also help galvanize the women’s movement and UN programming in the region.

The overall objective will be to draw attention to the continued marginalization of women survivors of sexual violence in the region and the absence of real justice for women.  There may be a series of follow up activities to address the findings and outcome of the consultations.