Sexual exploitation and abuse by MINUSTAH peacekeepers: a critical assessment of the impact of socio-cultural norms in peacekeeping

Abstract

Several cases of sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) involving peacekeepers have been reported during MINUSTAH. Throughout the years, the United Nations has elaborated an extensive framework concerning sexual exploitation and peacekeeping abuse. However, this issue is still re-occurrent in field missions. MINUSTAH serves as an illustrative case study in this regard. In Haiti, the number of alleged victims is much higher than what has been officially reported. Victims often do not report to the respective authorities for a variety of reasons. The influence of socialcultural norms in the deployment of a peacekeeping mission shall be analyzed, aiming at understanding the root causes of the SEA issue.