Paper details
| Paper authors | Delu LUSAMBYA, PhD researcher at International Institute of Social Studies |
| In panel on | Transactional sex in humanitarian contexts |
| Paper presenter(s) will be presenting |
In-Person / |
Abstract
Since the beginning of armed conflict and the implementation of humanitarian projects to meet the needs of those affected in eastern DRC, Sexual abuse has become a big issue in the humanitarian sector. While several scholars and practitioners have focused their attention on the description of the fact, there is still a gap in the existing literature on how advocacy and accountability mechanisms shape trust to ensure an efficient response to sexual exploitation and abuse.
Drawing on empirical data from the perceptions of aid providers and victims of sexual exploitation and abuse, this paper critically analyzes the accountability and advocacy mechanisms used in humanitarian actions to stop sexual exploitation and abuse. It uses an interactive methodology based on participatory methods and the Eastern Congo case to explain what is being done and what needs to be done to stop this violence.
As long as Eastern advocacy and accountability mechanisms are not trust-based, sexual exploitation will remain an issue. All stakeholders, including communities, civil society, and state agencies, must take responsibility for the fight against sexual abuse.
