Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a critical role in advancing accountability and survivor-centered responses to sexual and gender‑based violence (SGBV) linked to terrorism. This study, conducted in line with the mandate of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) to engage with CSOs and consult with women and women’s organizations to inform its work on the issue, draws on consultations with more than 40 representatives of civil society organizations (CSOs) across 16 Member States in regions affected by terrorism, including Francophone and Anglophone Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and North America. The study highlights how CSOs contribute to justice and accountability through medical and psychosocial support, documentation of violations, advocacy for inclusive access to justice and reparations, community reintegration efforts, and engagement in transitional justice processes. Insights from CSOs underscore several priorities: addressing the full spectrum of SGBV; ensuring survivor-centered and human security‑focused policy approaches; prioritizing prevention; and strengthening protection and sustainable funding for CSOs—particularly women‑led organizations—working in high‑risk environments.
2024