Sexual Violence

Sexual violence is a significant human rights and public health issue, with negative consequences for health and well-being. Definitions of sexual violence may include sexual assault; forced sexual activity perpetrated by intimate partners, strangers, [Page 773]or individuals known to a person and sexual harassment; and unwanted behaviors that make people feel uncomfortable because of their sexual nature and that serve to offend, humiliate, or intimidate. Sexual violence is not a reflection of sexual desire; it is a hostile and aggressive act, most commonly perpetrated by men against women, reflecting feelings of anger and hostility toward women, as well as a need to exert power and control. As such, sexual violence is grounded in misogyny, gender-based discrimination, and inequality. Rates of sexual violence are higher in ...