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Journal Article
|Research

Sexual violence in post-conflict Liberia: survivors and their care

Tayler-Smith K, Zachariah R, Hinderaker SG, Manzi M, de Plecker E, Van Wolvelaer P, Gil T, Goetghebuer S, Ritter H, Bawo L, Davis-Worzi C
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Abstract
Using routine data from three clinics offering care to survivors of sexual violence (SV) in Monrovia, Liberia, we describe the characteristics of SV survivors and the pattern of SV and discuss how the current approach could be better adapted to meet survivors' needs. There were 1500 survivors seeking SV care between January 2008 and December 2009. Most survivors were women (98%) and median age was 13 years (Interquartile range: 9-17 years). Sexual aggression occurred during day-to-day activities in 822 (55%) cases and in the survivor's home in 552 (37%) cases. The perpetrator was a known civilian in 1037 (69%) SV events. Only 619 (41%) survivors sought care within 72 h. The current approach could be improved by: effectively addressing the psychosocial needs of child survivors, reaching male survivors, targeting the perpetrators in awareness and advocacy campaigns and reducing delays in seeking care.

Countries

Liberia

Subject Area

women's healthdisplaced populationsarmed conflictsexual and gender-based violence

Languages

English
DOI
10.1111/j.1365-3156.2012.03066.x
Published Date
12 Aug 2012
PubMed ID
22882628
Journal
Tropical Medicine and International Health
Volume | Issue | Pages
Volume 17, Issue 11
Issue Date
2012-08-12
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Sexual violence in post-conflict Liberia: survivors and their care | Journal Article / Research | MSF Science Portal