59 saved#3,192 of 6,224

International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

Join the fight against sexual violence in conflict zones and stand with survivors on International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

Saturday

June 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEJune 19

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYViolence Prevention

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to join the movement and raise awareness for a crucial cause on June 19, which marks the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 to recognize and condemn the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and to honor survivors of such atrocities. It's a day to stand in solidarity with those who have suffered from sexual violence during times of conflict, and to advocate for their rights and justice. Let's come together to create a world where this type of violence is no longer tolerated or ignored.

TIMELINE

International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict Timeline

Geneva Conventions

The Geneva Conventions defined the fundamental rights of wartime prisoners, established protections for the wounded, and established protections for the civilians in and around a war-zone, contributing to the discourse on sexual violence in conflict.

Bosnian War Mass Rape

During the Bosnian War, mass rape was used as a weapon of war, bringing worldwide attention to the issue of sexual violence in conflict zones.

UN Establishes DPKO

The United Nations establishes the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) with responsibility for the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse in UN peacekeeping missions.

UN Resolution 1820

UN Security Council Resolution 1820 is adopted, recognizing for the first time, the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war.

Creation of UN Action Network

The UN Action Against Sexual Violence in Conflict network is established to coordinate efforts and share information between different entities within the United Nations system.

Establishment of the Day

The United Nations General Assembly establishes June 19 as the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

Educate yourself and others

Take the time to research and educate yourself about sexual violence in conflict. Share what you learn with friends and family to spread awareness about this important issue.

DONATE

Donate to organizations supporting survivors

Find organizations that provide support to survivors of sexual violence in conflict and donate to their cause. Every contribution helps make a difference in the lives of those affected by this issue.

ATTEND

Attend a peaceful protest or march

Join a peaceful protest or march in your community to show support for survivors of sexual violence in conflict and to advocate for change and justice.

ORGANIZE

Organize a panel discussion or workshop

Gather experts, activists, and survivors to host a panel discussion or workshop on sexual violence in conflict. This can help raise awareness and provide a platform for important discussions and conversations.

START

Start a social media campaign

Use your voice and social media platforms to start a campaign to raise awareness about sexual violence in conflict. Share statistics, survivor stories, and ways for others to get involved in the cause.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is Important

It puts pressure on governments and organizations to take action

By designating a specific day for this issue, it holds governments and organizations accountable for taking measures to prevent and respond to sexual violence in conflict zones. It also calls for policy changes that protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.

It raises awareness and encourages action

This international day brings attention to the widespread issue of sexual violence in conflict zones. By acknowledging its existence, it promotes dialogue and activism towards preventing and addressing such acts.

It sheds light on the experiences of survivors

The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict not only highlights the prevalence of these atrocities, but also gives a platform for victims to share their stories and advocate for their rights. This helps to break the stigma surrounding survivors and encourages healing and support.

Related holidays

WED

Nov 2026

Awareness

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Stand together to put an end to violence against women - join us on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women!

International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression

On International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression, let's stand together to protect and advocate for the rights of all children affected by conflict and violence.

81Read

SAT

Jun 2026