Violence against Women in Northern Uganda: The Neglected Health Consequences of War

Abstract

This article presents a summary of research intervention work carried out in waraffected\nNorthern Uganda by Isis-WICCE, a women’s international non-government\norganisation, in conjunction with the Ugandan Medical Association and funded by\nMedica Mondiale, a German-based foundation. The findings of this research demonstrate\nthe serious effects of sexual violence and torture experienced on women’s physical and\npsychological health. However, this paper also describes women’s key role in trying to\nbring peace to this region, as well as their resistance and survival strategies. It is\nrecommended that funding is urgently required for the provision of sustainable, gender\nsensitive physical and psychological health services in this region. Women’s campaign\nfor justice for the atrocities they have suffered should be heard by the International\nCriminal Court. Further recommendations are made with respect to policy changes in line with enhancing women’s roles and furthering the empowerment of these women war\nsurvivors.