Non-state Actors and Violence Against Women in Africa

Abstract

Violence against women is a form of discrimination and a violation of women’s human rights. It is prevalent, widespread, persistent, and global and is deeply rooted in gender inequality and social norms that condone violence and control over women. Historically gender-based patriarchal discrimination of females globally has interfered with addressing forms of violence perpetrated against women and girls by non-state actors. Instances of violence perpetrated by non-state actors against women vary. Women experience violence from non-state actors such as individuals within the family and their immediate community as well as violence by armed non-state actors. In the private sphere just as in the public sphere, many women are subjected to sexual, physical, and psychological violence. Armed rebel groups, militias, and state security forces often commit heinous sexual crimes against women in situations of conflicts and wars. However, as much as they are perceived as dangerous and perpetrators of violence against women most especially during conflicts situations, they are also seen as the expression of social problems because they see themselves as representatives of distinct interests and may build on broad support within communities. Their influence therefore may be useful for pacifying warlords and rebels in some circumstances which may eventually result in disarmament and peaceful resolution of conflicts.

This chapter focuses on violence against women by non-state actors. The position of non-state actors as perpetrators of violence against women across Africa is examined to have a nuanced understanding of their role in gender-based violence.