Madam, - Trócaire's experience in combating gender-based violence may help inform the current debate on violence against women. As an agency working in the developing world, Trócaire has many years' experience in countries where violence against women is endemic, especially in areas of conflict where rape of women is used as a regular and deliberate weapon of war.
The most glaring example of this is happening today in Darfur. Among the 2 million people who have been forced from their homes, hundreds of women are being brutally raped by the roaming militia. The majority of attacks and rapes are perpetrated while women are pursuing their vital daily activities such as searching for firewood and water so they can provide food for their families.
These attacks are carried out with impunity and largely ignored by the authorities. Indeed, when Médecins Sans Frontières published its report on sexual violence in Darfur in March 2005, the director and another staff member were arrested and charged with crimes against the State.
Trócaire also has much experience in post-conflict countries where domestic violence against women is often manifest.
While acknowledging that women are the primary victims of sexual violence, we are very conscious of the extreme violence perpetrated against men, especially during conflict. In addition to violence related directly to combat, men and young boys are often conscripted or abducted and forced into battle and suffer physical and psychological abuse, sexual violence and trafficking.
However, there is a dearth of information available on sexual violence against men largely because it is not spoken about in society.
It is important that the debate should not be polarised. Addressing gender-based violence must be an inclusive process, involving both men and women, the wider society and authorities who tolerate this crime.
It is essential that governments and relevant international bodies take seriously their responsibilities in relation to gender-based violence. - Is mise,
MUIREANN KIRRANE, Trócaire, Maynooth, Co Kildare.