ABSTRACT
The disintegration of the Socialist Federalist Republic of Yugoslavia (SRFY) in 1991 triggered a series of wars. Reports of horrible acts and violations of International Humanitarian Law during the war, including the brutal sexual violence against women, prompted members of the international community to propose drastic action. The United Nations Security Council requested the Secretary-General to establish a Commission of Experts to examine Crimes against Humanity and war crimes committed in the territory of the former Yugoslavia. Rapes seem to occur in conjunction with efforts to displace the targeted ethnic group from the region. This may involve heightened shame and humiliation by raping victims in front of adult and minor family members, in front of other detainees or in public places, or by forcing family members to rape each other. Young women and virgins are targeted for rape, along with prominent members of the community and educated women.
