Advancing justice and inclusion for children born of Conflict-related sexual violence: a rapid evidence assessment

Abstract

This Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) evaluates the immediate and long-term risks, harms, and challenges faced by Children Born of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CBoCRSV) in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Conducted under the UK’s Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative (PSVI), the assessment addresses three key research questions: What are the primary risks, harms, and challenges faced by CBoCRSV? What interventions may effectively promote their well-being? How has research in this field evolved? Through the analysis of 289 documents, the findings of this REA reveal that CBoCRSV commonly face severe social stigma and exclusion, affecting their integration within families and communities. Their family dynamics are frequently strained, with limited stable support. They are at higher risk of somatic symptoms, depression, and identity�related challenges, that can lead to long-term psycho-social and developmental harm. Additionally, barriers such as lack of legal documentation, financial constraints, and societal discrimination often restrict their access to education, healthcare, and basic services. Cultural and religious beliefs were also found to exacerbate their marginalisation. Promising interventions include psychological support programmes, legal advocacy, community-based support, and educational and economic inclusion initiatives. However, these remain largely under-evaluated due to a lack of empirical research. Significant gaps in the literature include limited representation of certain regions, a dearth of comparative studies across conflict settings, and insufficient data to capture the intersectional and long-term challenges CBoCRSV face. To address these gaps, the literature calls for targeted action to strengthen participatory approaches that engage survivors and affected communities in policymaking, foster international collaboration to standardise and scale effective interventions, and invest in systematic, ethical research to identify what works. Recommended measures include strengthened legal frameworks, enhanced social support systems, economic inclusion, and improved access to education and healthcare. Together, these efforts aim to create protective environments that reduce risks, foster integration, and promote the rights and well-being of CBoCRS