* Much has been written about women who have survived wartime sexual violence, but this is the first book to consider how to protect the children born as a result * Presents case-studies integrating what is known about these children’s whereabouts, status, and needs in different country contexts, and theoretical essays considering the human security dimensions of this issue for the first time
Born of War examines the human rights of children born of wartime rape and sexual exploitation in conflict zones worldwide. Detailing the multiple impacts of armed conflict on these children's survival, protection and membership rights, the case studies suggest that these children constitute a particularly vulnerable category in conflict zones. They often face risks such as discrimination, infanticide, loss of health care, education and other rights guaranteed to all children under international law.
The contributors to this collection have the stated goal of using their research to advocate for greater consideration of this group in international human rights discourse and practice where their experiences have so far been ignored. A wide variety of case studies show that every community responds to these children in different ways. The exploration into why this is so reveals much that contemporary humanitarianism will find valuable.
Other Contributors : Eunice Apio, Giulia Baldi, Marie Consolée Mukangendo, Joana Daniel, Debra DeLaet, Michael Goodhart, Susan Harris Rimmer, Megan MacKenzie, Siobhán McEvoy-Levy, Julie Mertus, Patricia Weitsman.
"This book sheds light on a serious human security concern that persists despite the abundance of international legal instruments designed to protect children who by accident of birth happen to be in conflict zones. This excellently edited volume, with its rich case studies and thoughtful recommendations, is a cutting edge work that will attract the interest of academics and policymakers working in the humanitarian field." - Dr. W. Andy Knight, Professor, International Relations, University of Alberta and Director, Children and Armed Conflict project