Women and children as victims and offenders: The impact of armed conflict and post-conflict period challenges

Abstract

The aim of the chapter is to explore the impact of armed conflicts and their consequences on victimization and offending of women and children, and the implications on how a State, international actors and civil society respond. First, the theoretical framework and an overview of available findings about the impact of war on crime is provided, with special emphasis on victimization and offending of women and children. Then, we present a detailed review and analysis of the situation in Serbia during and after armed conflicts on the territory of the former Yugoslavia. In the analysis of the Serbian situation, particular emphasis is put on the long-term impact of war on offending and victimization of women and children through domestic violence and trafficking in persons. In conclusion, the role of the State, civil society and international actors is assessed and recommendations for more timely and appropriate responses are offered.