Agents with Principles? Preventing Conflict-Related Sexual Violence with Human Rights Laws and Norms

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Focusing on conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV), we posit that behavioral expectations in the form of norms and laws have a visible impact on government militaries. Using data from over 2,000 actor-incidents between 1989 and 2015, we find a robust negative relationship between physical integrity norms and CRSV. CRSV is often a gendered act, but its prevention is not. Our analysis suggests that CRSV prevention rests with the imperative to respect physical integrity rights. This inherent respect restrains government actors even when elements of formal military control are absent or only inconsistently enforced.