Women war survivors of the 1989-2003 conflict in Liberia: the impact of sexual and gender-based violence

This article presents a summary of the qualitative data from research carried out in post-conflict Liberia by Isis-WICEE, a women’s international non-government organisation, in conjunction with the Ministry of Gender and Development of Liberia and Women in Peace-building Network, WIPNET. Analysis of research findings detail women’s experiences of conflict and the serious effects of sexual violence and torture on their physical and psychological health. The paper also describes the omission of women from justice and rehabilitation processes. In support of women participants’ views, the author’s recommend that funding is urgently required for the provision of holistic and sustainable, gender-sensitive services. Additional recommendations are made with respect to health, justice and policy changes in line with enhancing women survivor’s roles and utilising their skills and resilience.