Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones Investigation Training Course

Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones Investigation Training Course

Introduction

Sexual violence in conflict zones remains a grave human rights violation, affecting thousands of survivors each year, especially women, children, and vulnerable populations. Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones Investigation Training Course is designed to equip professionals, investigators, and humanitarian workers with the necessary skills to conduct survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and legally sound investigations into conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). Utilizing international best practices, forensic approaches, and multidisciplinary collaboration, the course enhances competencies in addressing these atrocities with empathy, rigor, and justice.

 

Through real-world case studies, interactive modules, and evidence-based strategies, participants will learn how to identify, document, and report sexual violence committed during armed conflict. With a focus on gender justice, international criminal law, and survivor protection, the course prepares professionals to work effectively in complex environments where access to justice is often limited. This is an essential training for anyone involved in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, human rights advocacy, or international law enforcement.

Course Objectives

1. Define and understand Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) under international law.
2. Develop survivor-centered investigative techniques for CRSV cases.
3. Analyze the legal frameworks governing CRSV under International Criminal Law and Humanitarian Law.
4. Apply forensic documentation procedures and trauma-informed interviewing.
5. Enhance skills in evidence collection and chain of custody maintenance in conflict zones.
6. Identify patterns of sexual violence using data analysis and geographic profiling.
7. Understand the role of gender-sensitive approaches in CRSV investigations.
8. Integrate psychosocial support mechanisms for survivors and investigators.
9. Employ risk mitigation strategies to ensure safety during field investigations.
10. Collaborate with international organizations and local actors for cross-sectoral justice.
11. Explore the ethical responsibilities of investigators in high-risk zones.
12. Assess the impact of militarized sexual violence on post-conflict communities.
13. Strengthen advocacy and policy development to combat sexual violence in armed conflict.

Target Audiences:

1. International human rights lawyers
2. UN peacekeepers and mission staff
3. Gender-based violence (GBV) coordinators
4. Forensic specialists and medical examiners
5. Humanitarian aid workers
6. Law enforcement officers
7. Conflict and peacebuilding researchers
8. Civil society advocates in conflict zones

Course Duration: 5 days

Course Modules

Module 1: Understanding CRSV and Legal Context

• Definitions and typologies of CRSV
• History and prevalence of CRSV in global conflicts
• International Criminal Court (ICC) and legal precedents
• Geneva Conventions and UNSC Resolutions
• Legal rights of survivors under international law
• Case Study: The Prosecutor v. Jean-Pierre Bemba (ICC)

Module 2: Survivor-Centered Interview Techniques

• Building trust and rapport with survivors
• Trauma-informed interviewing principles
• Avoiding retraumatization during interviews
• Documentation of testimonies and informed consent
• Protection of identity and confidentiality
• Case Study: The Yazidi Women in Northern Iraq

Module 3: Forensic and Medical Evidence Collection

• Best practices for evidence preservation in conflict zones
• Use of rape kits and forensic tools
• Chain of custody in fragile states
• Coordination with medical professionals and NGOs
• Ethical handling of physical evidence
• Case Study: Democratic Republic of Congo – Panzi Hospital

Module 4: Psychological First Aid and Mental Health Support

• Basic psychological first aid techniques
• Mental health implications of CRSV
• Referrals and long-term support networks
• Self-care for investigators
• Culturally sensitive mental health services
• Case Study: Post-genocide Rwanda and trauma healing

Module 5: Risk Mitigation and Field Safety

• Situational awareness in conflict areas
• Field protocols and communication plans
• Mitigating retaliation against survivors
• Emergency response planning
• Collaborating with local protection actors
• Case Study: Syria – Investigating under siege

Module 6: Data Collection, Mapping & Reporting

• Collecting quantitative and qualitative data
• Use of mobile and geospatial technologies
• Pattern analysis and early warning systems
• Report writing for legal and advocacy use
• Ensuring accuracy and data protection
• Case Study: Mapping CRSV in Myanmar (Rohingya Crisis)

Module 7: Gender, Power, and Conflict Dynamics

• Gendered dimensions of war and peace
• Role of masculinities in wartime violence
• Intersectionality in CRSV response
• Gender-responsive investigation practices
• Integrating women's voices in justice processes
• Case Study: Gender-based violence during the Balkan Wars

Module 8: Advocacy, Accountability, and Transitional Justice

• Role of tribunals, truth commissions, and reparations
• Linking local justice systems to international frameworks
• Building survivor-led advocacy campaigns
• Promoting law reform and accountability
• Role of media and public awareness
• Case Study: Sierra Leone Special Court and GBV trials

Training Methodology

• Interactive presentations and multimedia content
• Role-playing scenarios and mock interviews
• Case study analysis and group discussions
• Field simulation and risk assessment exercises
• Practical forensic demonstrations
• Expert guest speakers from international legal and humanitarian bodies

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@datastatresearch.org or call +254724527104 

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

 We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to DATASTAT CONSULTANCY LTD account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.