In the infamous rape case in Australia, after a 12-day trial, the jury has been discharged. Brittany Higgins had accused Bruce Lehrmann in early 2021.

Australia rape case: Brittany Higgins vs Bruce Lehrmann; After a 12-day trial, Jury discharged

A special envoy of the United Nations has accused Russia of using rape and sexual assault&nbsp;as part of their “military strategy” in the ongoing Ukraine invasion.

Speaking to AFP, UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, backed her claims by citing a UN report released in late September.

The report released by a panel of UN experts recently verified “more than a hundred cases” of rape or sexual assault incidents in Ukraine since February—when Russia launched its invasion.

Patten claimed that the number of victims is likely to be higher than official figures saying that sexual crimes are often “under-reported”.

“When you hear women testify about Russian soldiers equipped with Viagra, it’s clearly a military strategy,” Pramila Patten, UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, said in an interview with AFP on Thursday.

She said that the report "confirmed crimes against humanity committed by the Russian forces, and according to the gathered testimonies, the age of the victims of sexual violence ranges from four to 82-year-old."

“There are many cases of sexual violence against children who are raped, tortured and sequestered,” Patten said.

“I have not stopped since February to emphasize the importance of having credible investigations into these cases of violence,” she added.

Her claims lend credence to the repeated assertions made by the Ukrainian politicians who spoke of numerous cases of sexual violence since Putin declared war.

In June, Ukraine’s deputy minister of internal affairs Kateryna Pavlichenko alleged that police received around 50 complaints of sexual crimes committed by Russian soldiers.

Ukrainian officials are also probing rape allegations in the Kharkiv region after Ukrainian forces recently recaptured territory there.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A special envoy of the United Nations has accused Russia of using rape and sexual assault as part of their “military strategy” in the ongoing Ukraine invasion. Speaking to AFP, UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, backed her claims by citing a UN report released in late September.

A special envoy of the United Nations has accused Russia of using rape and sexual assault as part of their “military strategy” in the ongoing Ukraine invasion. Speaking to AFP, UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, backed her claims by citing a UN report released in late September. The report released by a panel of UN experts recently verified “more than a hundred cases” of rape or sexual assault incidents in Ukraine since February—when Russia launched its invasion. Patten claimed that the number of victims is likely to be higher than official figures saying that sexual crimes are often “under-reported”. “When you hear women testify about Russian soldiers equipped with Viagra, it’s clearly a military strategy,” Pramila Patten, UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, said in an interview with AFP on Thursday. She said that the report "confirmed crimes against humanity committed by the Russian forces, and according to the gathered testimonies, the age of the victims of sexual violence ranges from four to 82-year-old." “There are many cases of sexual violence against children who are raped, tortured and sequestered,” Patten said. “I have not stopped since February to emphasize the importance of having credible investigations into these cases of violence,” she added. Her claims lend credence to the repeated assertions made by the Ukrainian politicians who spoke of numerous cases of sexual violence since Putin declared war. In June, Ukraine’s deputy minister of internal affairs Kateryna Pavlichenko alleged that police received around 50 complaints of sexual crimes committed by Russian soldiers. Ukrainian officials are also probing rape allegations in the Kharkiv region after Ukrainian forces recently recaptured territory there. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia giving soldiers Viagra to rape Ukrainians, UN envoy says: Report

British prosecutors said on Saturday (October 15) Manchester United soccer player Mason Greenwood had been charged with attempted rape, controlling behaviour and assault.

The 21-year-old was arrested in January after social media images and videos were posted by a woman reporting incidents of physical violence.

"The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge Mason Greenwood, 21, with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm," prosecutor Janet Potter said in a statement.

"All three counts relate to the same complainant."

Greenwood, who has been suspended by his club pending the investigation, is due to appear at Greater Manchester magistrates’ court on Monday (October 17).

Neither Greenwood nor his representatives have commented at any stage on the allegations against him.

"The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against the defendant are active and that he has a right to a fair trial," Potter said.

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British prosecutors said on Saturday (October 15) Manchester United soccer player Mason Greenwood had been charged with attempted rape, controlling behaviour and assault.

British prosecutors said on Saturday (October 15) Manchester United soccer player Mason Greenwood had been charged with attempted rape, controlling behaviour and assault. The 21-year-old was arrested in January after social media images and videos were posted by a woman reporting incidents of physical violence. "The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge Mason Greenwood, 21, with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm," prosecutor Janet Potter said in a statement. "All three counts relate to the same complainant." Greenwood, who has been suspended by his club pending the investigation, is due to appear at Greater Manchester magistrates’ court on Monday (October 17). Neither Greenwood nor his representatives have commented at any stage on the allegations against him. "The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against the defendant are active and that he has a right to a fair trial," Potter said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Manchester United's Mason Greenwood charged with attempted rape, assault

A former political employee from Australia claimed she felt "trapped" and "not human" during alleged rape inside Canberra's Parliament House.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Brittany Higgins was allegedly sexually attacked by Bruce Lehrmann in March 2019 when she was intoxicated and dozing off in a government minister's office, according to the prosecution.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Lehrmann, 27, entered a not guilty plea and says they never had intercourse. This week's trial in a court in Canberra got underway, and numerous well-known witnesses are likely to testify. 
&nbsp; 
Higgins, who was testifying in court for the first time, said she had known Lehrmann for less than a month before the alleged attack on March 23 and that he had attempted to kiss her after a work function in the weeks prior.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Higgins had earlier testified that she and Lehrmann had planned to share a vehicle home after a night out with friends but had instead stopped at Parliament House in a police interview that was shown to the jury.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Higgins stated during a second police interview that she was hesitant to inform her supervisors of what had occurred because she feared losing her job and felt "disposable."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trio-awarded-nobel-for-development-of-click-chemistry-522693">Scientist trio awarded Nobel Prize for pioneering work on 'click chemistry'</a> 
&nbsp; 
The incident was first reported to the police by Higgins in April 2019, but she later withdrew her complaint out of concern that it would interfere with her ability to do her job during an election campaign.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
After speaking with two journalists, she requested that the matter be reopened in February 2021, over two years later.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The Australian Capital Territory Supreme Court has been informed by the prosecution that they want to claim that Higgins was too drunk to consent to sex.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
It is anticipated that the experiment would last up to six weeks. 
&nbsp; 
(with inputs from agencies)

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A former political employee from Australia claimed she felt "trapped" and "not human" during alleged rape inside Canberra's Parliament House. Brittany Higgins was allegedly sexually attacked by Bruce Lehrmann in March 2019 when she was intoxicated and dozing off in a government minister's office, according to the prosecution.

A former political employee from Australia claimed she felt "trapped" and "not human" during alleged rape inside Canberra's Parliament House. Brittany Higgins was allegedly sexually attacked by Bruce Lehrmann in March 2019 when she was intoxicated and dozing off in a government minister's office, according to the prosecution. Lehrmann, 27, entered a not guilty plea and says they never had intercourse. This week's trial in a court in Canberra got underway, and numerous well-known witnesses are likely to testify. Higgins, who was testifying in court for the first time, said she had known Lehrmann for less than a month before the alleged attack on March 23 and that he had attempted to kiss her after a work function in the weeks prior. Higgins had earlier testified that she and Lehrmann had planned to share a vehicle home after a night out with friends but had instead stopped at Parliament House in a police interview that was shown to the jury. Higgins stated during a second police interview that she was hesitant to inform her supervisors of what had occurred because she feared losing her job and felt "disposable." Also Read: Scientist trio awarded Nobel Prize for pioneering work on 'click chemistry' The incident was first reported to the police by Higgins in April 2019, but she later withdrew her complaint out of concern that it would interfere with her ability to do her job during an election campaign. After speaking with two journalists, she requested that the matter be reopened in February 2021, over two years later. The Australian Capital Territory Supreme Court has been informed by the prosecution that they want to claim that Higgins was too drunk to consent to sex. It is anticipated that the experiment would last up to six weeks. (with inputs from agencies)

Former political staffer Brittany Higgins felt 'trapped' during alleged rape in Canberra parliament

Billionaire Richard Liu, founder of one of China’s largest e-commerce platforms JD.com, has settled a civil suit brought by former University of Michigan student Liu Jingyao, who had accused him of rape.

World Business Watch: JD.com founder and billionaire Liu settles US rape civil suit

A US teenager who was also a victim of human trafficking was given a five-year prison term and ordered to pay $150,000 (£130,350) to the family of the alleged rapist.&nbsp;

When Pieper Lewis was allegedly raped in June 2020 in Des Moines, Iowa, she was only 15 years old. The now-17-year-old was accused of killing 37-year-old Zachary Brooks.&nbsp;

Later, she entered a guilty plea to deliberate injury and involuntary manslaughter, each of which carry a maximum 10-year prison sentence.

On Tuesday, Polk County District Judge David M Porter sentenced Lewis to five years of closely monitored probation and ordered her to pay $150,000 in compensation to Brooks' family. If she breaks the terms of her probation, she might receive a 20-year sentence.

"This court is presented with no other option," Judge Porter remarked in reference to the payment to the alleged rapist's estate.&nbsp;

The girl recalled how the 28-year-old had held her at knifepoint and had her accompany Brooks to his residence. She claimed to have stabbed Brooks in a fit of rage after he had raped her once more, taking a knife from the bedside table, according to the authorities.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/juxtapose-dramatic-expansion-of-bahrain-by-building-land-on-sea-1987-vs-2022-515720">Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022</a>

Iowa is a state without safe harbour laws, which provide victims of human trafficking with some level of criminal immunity. Additionally, the prosecution claimed that Lewis' guilty plea waived any affirmative defences.

A plan to establish a safe harbour statute for victims of human trafficking had passed the Iowa House earlier this year, according to Karl Schilling of the Iowa Organization for Victim Assistance, but it had stuck in the Senate due to worries from law enforcement groups that it was too broad.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A US teenager who was also a victim of human trafficking was given a five-year prison term and ordered to pay $150,000 (£130,350) to the family of the alleged rapist.

A US teenager who was also a victim of human trafficking was given a five-year prison term and ordered to pay $150,000 (£130,350) to the family of the alleged rapist. When Pieper Lewis was allegedly raped in June 2020 in Des Moines, Iowa, she was only 15 years old. The now-17-year-old was accused of killing 37-year-old Zachary Brooks. Later, she entered a guilty plea to deliberate injury and involuntary manslaughter, each of which carry a maximum 10-year prison sentence. On Tuesday, Polk County District Judge David M Porter sentenced Lewis to five years of closely monitored probation and ordered her to pay $150,000 in compensation to Brooks' family. If she breaks the terms of her probation, she might receive a 20-year sentence. "This court is presented with no other option," Judge Porter remarked in reference to the payment to the alleged rapist's estate. The girl recalled how the 28-year-old had held her at knifepoint and had her accompany Brooks to his residence. She claimed to have stabbed Brooks in a fit of rage after he had raped her once more, taking a knife from the bedside table, according to the authorities. Also Read: Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022 Iowa is a state without safe harbour laws, which provide victims of human trafficking with some level of criminal immunity. Additionally, the prosecution claimed that Lewis' guilty plea waived any affirmative defences. A plan to establish a safe harbour statute for victims of human trafficking had passed the Iowa House earlier this year, according to Karl Schilling of the Iowa Organization for Victim Assistance, but it had stuck in the Senate due to worries from law enforcement groups that it was too broad. (with inputs from agencies)

US teen who killed her rapist sentenced to 5 years in prison, ordered to pay $150,000 fine

After a rape video posted by Italy's Prime Minister hopeful&nbsp;Giorgia Meloni received widespread criticism, Twitter on Tuesday deleted the video. The post shared by Meloni was removed and replaced with a comment,&nbsp;"This Tweet violated the Twitter Rules."

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As reported by WION, the far-right leader on Monday posted&nbsp;a video which showed a Ukrainian refugee being sexually assaulted on the streets of Italy.&nbsp;

The video&nbsp;was reportedly shot by someone in a flat with a view of the street. The attacker was later taken into custody.

Read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/election-strategy-or-clickbait-voyeurism-italian-pm-hopeful-posts-rape-video-on-twitter-509391">:&nbsp;Election strategy or 'clickbait voyeurism'? Italian PM hopeful posts rape video on Twitter</a>

Along with the tweet, Meloni reportedly wrote, "One cannot remain silent in the face of this atrocious episode of sexual violence against a Ukrainian woman carried out in daytime in Piacenza by an asylum seeker."&nbsp;

“A hug to this woman. I will do everything I can to restore security to our cities," she added.

Enrico Letta, the head of the Democratic Party called Meloni's use of the video "indecent" and said that "respect of the victim comes first."

Meloni, however, claimed on Facebook that her competitors had used the rape to attack her while ignoring the victim to avoid dealing with what she called the immigration issue.

"I am honestly ashamed of political leaders who, while using rape to attack me, do not spend a word of solidarity for the victim, obviously for fear of having to face the issue of the security emergency aggravated by immigration illegal by the masses."

Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-giorgia-meloni-italys-far-right-leader-tipped-to-become-first-female-prime-minister-500815">Who is Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s far-right leader tipped to become first female Prime Minister?</a>

Meanwhile, the Italian police, along with state watchdog tasked with the protection of personal data is investigating the dissemination of the gruesome video.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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&nbsp;

After a rape video posted by Italy's Prime Minister hopeful Giorgia Meloni received widespread criticism, Twitter on Tuesday deleted the video. The post shared by Meloni was removed and replaced with a comment, "This Tweet violated the Twitter Rules.

After a rape video posted by Italy's Prime Minister hopeful Giorgia Meloni received widespread criticism, Twitter on Tuesday deleted the video. The post shared by Meloni was removed and replaced with a comment, "This Tweet violated the Twitter Rules." As reported by WION, the far-right leader on Monday posted a video which showed a Ukrainian refugee being sexually assaulted on the streets of Italy. The video was reportedly shot by someone in a flat with a view of the street. The attacker was later taken into custody. Read more: Election strategy or 'clickbait voyeurism'? Italian PM hopeful posts rape video on Twitter Along with the tweet, Meloni reportedly wrote, "One cannot remain silent in the face of this atrocious episode of sexual violence against a Ukrainian woman carried out in daytime in Piacenza by an asylum seeker." “A hug to this woman. I will do everything I can to restore security to our cities," she added. Enrico Letta, the head of the Democratic Party called Meloni's use of the video "indecent" and said that "respect of the victim comes first." Meloni, however, claimed on Facebook that her competitors had used the rape to attack her while ignoring the victim to avoid dealing with what she called the immigration issue. "I am honestly ashamed of political leaders who, while using rape to attack me, do not spend a word of solidarity for the victim, obviously for fear of having to face the issue of the security emergency aggravated by immigration illegal by the masses." Read more: Who is Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s far-right leader tipped to become first female Prime Minister? Meanwhile, the Italian police, along with state watchdog tasked with the protection of personal data is investigating the dissemination of the gruesome video. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Rape video posted by Italian PM hopeful Giorgia Meloni deleted by Twitter

A horrifying new research claims that since 1999, UN soldiers from 12 different nations have fathered and then abandoned thousands of children in the impoverished Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The study also says that troops and police working under a UN mandate in the war-torn country molested children, raped young women, and exchanged food for'survival sex.'

According to the research, one victim was just eleven years old when her aunt sold her to UN forces, who loaded her with alcohol, raped her, and got her pregnant.

The bulk of the missing dads were from Tanzania and South Africa, with others from Morocco, Uruguay, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

The men were serving in a variety of capacities, including soldiers, officers, and pilots, as well as drivers, chefs, physicians, and photographers.

The United Nations soldiers originally entered the DRC in 1999 as part of a ceasefire deal to end the Second Congo War, which was fought between the DRC and Rwanda, Uganda, Angola, Zimbabwe, and Nabibia, as well as rebel forces.

According to The Conversation, sexual assault and exploitation became a big worry not long after UN soldiers invaded the nation.

When peacekeepers are present, there is typically a rise in sex trafficking and brothels near military posts, child prostitution, the trade of sex for goods or food, and the spread of sexually transmitted illnesses such as HIV.

Despite the fact that procedures are intended to be in place to prevent the wrongdoing, it has become recognised as a systematic problem, and every UN mission has been linked to charges of sexual exploitation and abuse.

The youngest girl questioned by the researchers who had a child with a peacekeeper was just 10 years old, and half were under the age of eighteen when they became pregnant.

A team from the University of Birmingham led the study, which interviewed hundreds of peacekeepers' children aged six to 19. They also interviewed the moms in depth and conducted hundreds of interviews in all.

Nearly half (1,182 respondents) of the 2,858 people interviewed mentioned unprompted the topics of peacekeeper abuse and abandoned children.

They discovered that the mothers of these children were frequently rejected by their own families and stigmatised within their communities, while the children grew up in extreme poverty and neglect, and were ignored and alienated.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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A horrifying new research claims that since 1999, UN soldiers from 12 different nations have fathered and then abandoned thousands of children in the impoverished Democratic Republic of the Congo.

A horrifying new research claims that since 1999, UN soldiers from 12 different nations have fathered and then abandoned thousands of children in the impoverished Democratic Republic of the Congo. The study also says that troops and police working under a UN mandate in the war-torn country molested children, raped young women, and exchanged food for'survival sex.' According to the research, one victim was just eleven years old when her aunt sold her to UN forces, who loaded her with alcohol, raped her, and got her pregnant. The bulk of the missing dads were from Tanzania and South Africa, with others from Morocco, Uruguay, Nepal, and Bangladesh. The men were serving in a variety of capacities, including soldiers, officers, and pilots, as well as drivers, chefs, physicians, and photographers. The United Nations soldiers originally entered the DRC in 1999 as part of a ceasefire deal to end the Second Congo War, which was fought between the DRC and Rwanda, Uganda, Angola, Zimbabwe, and Nabibia, as well as rebel forces. According to The Conversation, sexual assault and exploitation became a big worry not long after UN soldiers invaded the nation. When peacekeepers are present, there is typically a rise in sex trafficking and brothels near military posts, child prostitution, the trade of sex for goods or food, and the spread of sexually transmitted illnesses such as HIV. Despite the fact that procedures are intended to be in place to prevent the wrongdoing, it has become recognised as a systematic problem, and every UN mission has been linked to charges of sexual exploitation and abuse. The youngest girl questioned by the researchers who had a child with a peacekeeper was just 10 years old, and half were under the age of eighteen when they became pregnant. A team from the University of Birmingham led the study, which interviewed hundreds of peacekeepers' children aged six to 19. They also interviewed the moms in depth and conducted hundreds of interviews in all. Nearly half (1,182 respondents) of the 2,858 people interviewed mentioned unprompted the topics of peacekeeper abuse and abandoned children. They discovered that the mothers of these children were frequently rejected by their own families and stigmatised within their communities, while the children grew up in extreme poverty and neglect, and were ignored and alienated. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Peacekeeping abuse: UN soldiers 'fathered and abandoned thousands of children' in DR Congo

South African authorities have charged 7 men with 32 counts of rape and robbery for the mass assault of a group of women at an abandoned mine near Johannesburg. The horrific incident which has created shock waves across the country has yet again raised the question of women's security in the region.

7 illegal miners accused for attacking 8 women in South Africa

South African authorities charge 7 men over gang rape

The world of football was rocked by yet another controversy as a Premier League international footballer was arrested in North London on suspicion of rape, according to Telegraph Sport. The report stated that the footballer is understood to be in his late 20s and the police has taken him in for questioning for the incident that took place last month. The arrest was later confirmed by Scotland Yard who issued an official statement stating the footballer is currently in their custody.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-kapil-devs-record-as-he-continues-dream-run-in-edgbaston-test-against-england-494437" hreflang="en">Bumrah breaks Kapil Dev's record as he continues dream run in Edgbaston Test</a>

For legal purposes, the name of the footballer was not released at the moment, but the Telegraph reported that his club was aware of the development and the subsequent questioning.

"On 4 July, an allegation of rape of a woman in her 20s was reported to police," the Met Police said in a statement according to the report. "It was reported the alleged rape happened in June 2022."

The police also said that the well-known footballer was held "at an address in Barnet on suspicion of rape and taken into custody where he remains" and the enquiry is currently “ongoing”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-plot-shock-move-for-cristiano-ronaldo-amid-his-desire-to-leave-manchester-united-this-summer-494423" hreflang="en">Chelsea plot shock move for Cristiano Ronaldo</a>

Most Premier League teams are gearing up for their pre-season fixtures ahead of the new season of English football which starts on August 5. The Telegraph also said that the footballer is quite well known in the footballing world and was going to play in the upcoming World Cup in Qatar.

However, this development can cast a huge shadow on his World Cup dreams and the upcoming days will be crucial in understanding where the investigation leads in this case.

The world of football was rocked by yet another controversy as a Premier League international footballer was arrested in North London on suspicion of rape, according to Telegraph Sport.

The world of football was rocked by yet another controversy as a Premier League international footballer was arrested in North London on suspicion of rape, according to Telegraph Sport. The report stated that the footballer is understood to be in his late 20s and the police has taken him in for questioning for the incident that took place last month. The arrest was later confirmed by Scotland Yard who issued an official statement stating the footballer is currently in their custody. Also read | Bumrah breaks Kapil Dev's record as he continues dream run in Edgbaston Test For legal purposes, the name of the footballer was not released at the moment, but the Telegraph reported that his club was aware of the development and the subsequent questioning. "On 4 July, an allegation of rape of a woman in her 20s was reported to police," the Met Police said in a statement according to the report. "It was reported the alleged rape happened in June 2022." The police also said that the well-known footballer was held "at an address in Barnet on suspicion of rape and taken into custody where he remains" and the enquiry is currently “ongoing”. Also read | Chelsea plot shock move for Cristiano Ronaldo Most Premier League teams are gearing up for their pre-season fixtures ahead of the new season of English football which starts on August 5. The Telegraph also said that the footballer is quite well known in the footballing world and was going to play in the upcoming World Cup in Qatar. However, this development can cast a huge shadow on his World Cup dreams and the upcoming days will be crucial in understanding where the investigation leads in this case.

Premier League footballer arrested in north London on suspicion of rape: Report

A case of a 10-year-old and six weeks pregnant rape survivor from Ohio in USA, who had to travel all the way to Indiana for termination of her pregnancy has put a spotlight on potential hardships millions in the country could face due to the overturning of Roe vs Wade. The landmark judgment, delivered in the year 1973, was overturned recently by US Supreme Court. It has resulted in American women losing the constitutional backing for abortion. Many US states have immediately banned abortions after Supreme Court verdict.

Dr Caitlin Bernard, an Indianapolis obstetrician-gynecologist told Columbus Dispatch that she received a call from colleague in Ohio who works with abuse survivors. The colleague asked for Dr Bernard's help for the girl. Abortion procedure has not been banned in Indiana yet, but state lawmakers are likely to do so soon. A special session of the assembly is due to convene later this month.

Dr Bernard said that her clinic and other abortion providers are receiving increased number of patients who are coming from neighbouring states where abortions are banned.

“It’s hard to imagine that in just a few short weeks we will have no ability to provide that care,” said Dr Bernard as quoted by Columbus Dispatch.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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A case of a 10-year-old and six weeks pregnant rape survivor from Ohio in USA, who had to travel all the way to Indiana for termination of her pregnancy has put a spotlight on potential hardships millions in the country could face due to the overturning of Roe vs Wade.

A case of a 10-year-old and six weeks pregnant rape survivor from Ohio in USA, who had to travel all the way to Indiana for termination of her pregnancy has put a spotlight on potential hardships millions in the country could face due to the overturning of Roe vs Wade. The landmark judgment, delivered in the year 1973, was overturned recently by US Supreme Court. It has resulted in American women losing the constitutional backing for abortion. Many US states have immediately banned abortions after Supreme Court verdict. Dr Caitlin Bernard, an Indianapolis obstetrician-gynecologist told Columbus Dispatch that she received a call from colleague in Ohio who works with abuse survivors. The colleague asked for Dr Bernard's help for the girl. Abortion procedure has not been banned in Indiana yet, but state lawmakers are likely to do so soon. A special session of the assembly is due to convene later this month. Dr Bernard said that her clinic and other abortion providers are receiving increased number of patients who are coming from neighbouring states where abortions are banned. “It’s hard to imagine that in just a few short weeks we will have no ability to provide that care,” said Dr Bernard as quoted by Columbus Dispatch. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Roe vs Wade overturn: 10-year-old rape survivor forced to travel from Ohio to Indiana for abortion

France President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (July 4) replaced a cabinet minister who faces rape allegations and is target of a probe. The cabinet reshuffle has come after the ruling alliance lost majority in parliamentary elections. Last reshuffle took place just one and a half months ago. This time, foreign, finance and defence ministers remained unchanged but other high-profile positions have seen a switch.

French Red Cross director Jean-Christophe Combe was named the new solidarity and social cohesion minister after the accusations against Damien Abad, who has denied any wrongdoing, in a scandal that has embarrassed the government.

A move made by Macron has surprised everyone. He has named the chief economist of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Laurence Boone as new Europe minister in place of Clement Beaune, who had played a key role in negotiations with the UK over Brexit.

In another key change, Christophe Bechu, mayor of the Loire city of Angers and a key ally of former prime minister Edouard Philippe, was named environment minister.

He replaces Macron loyalist Amelie de Montchalin who lost the battle for her seat in the parliamentary elections and has stepped aside.&nbsp;

Macron ruling alliance won most seats in parliamentary polls that took place on June 19. But it lost the majority. It will now would need to build coalitions to push legislation through parliament.

The outcome was seen as a major setback for the president, who won a second presidential term in May after defeating far-right leader Marine Le Pen.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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France President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (July 4) replaced a cabinet minister who faces rape allegations and is target of a probe. The cabinet reshuffle has come after the ruling alliance lost majority in parliamentary elections.

France President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (July 4) replaced a cabinet minister who faces rape allegations and is target of a probe. The cabinet reshuffle has come after the ruling alliance lost majority in parliamentary elections. Last reshuffle took place just one and a half months ago. This time, foreign, finance and defence ministers remained unchanged but other high-profile positions have seen a switch. French Red Cross director Jean-Christophe Combe was named the new solidarity and social cohesion minister after the accusations against Damien Abad, who has denied any wrongdoing, in a scandal that has embarrassed the government. A move made by Macron has surprised everyone. He has named the chief economist of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Laurence Boone as new Europe minister in place of Clement Beaune, who had played a key role in negotiations with the UK over Brexit. In another key change, Christophe Bechu, mayor of the Loire city of Angers and a key ally of former prime minister Edouard Philippe, was named environment minister. He replaces Macron loyalist Amelie de Montchalin who lost the battle for her seat in the parliamentary elections and has stepped aside. Macron ruling alliance won most seats in parliamentary polls that took place on June 19. But it lost the majority. It will now would need to build coalitions to push legislation through parliament. The outcome was seen as a major setback for the president, who won a second presidential term in May after defeating far-right leader Marine Le Pen. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Macron ditches minister accused of rape in cabinet reshuffle

In brazil, after a lengthy legal process, an 11-year-old girl finally got an abortion of a fetus that was the result of rape. However, President Bolsonaro denounced the act as unacceptable.

Minor rape victim receives legal abortion in Brazil, President denounces act as unacceptable

It has been 100 days since the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has been raging on and there is still no voice for the rape victims. Ukraine rape victims still suffer in silence.

Ukraine rape victims suffer in silence: 100 days on, no voice for rape victims?

Metaverse was launched with much fanfare and optimism by Mark Zuckerberg for connecting people online that encompasses augmented and virtual reality.

However, as is the case with social media platforms where bullying and cybercrime are rampant, Metaverse, too, has its own share of vices.

According to an online watchdog, within an hour of entering the Metaverse, a 21-year-old woman was sexually assaulted and harassed virtually.

A report — titled “Metaverse: another cesspool of toxic content” — said that the woman was raped within one hour of being in the metaverse, according to a new report from SumOfUs, a “nonprofit advocacy organization and online community that campaigns to hold corporations accountable” for a variety of alleged infractions, reports Daily Mail.

The unnamed woman, who works as a researcher for SumOfUs‚ claimed that her avatar was raped while other users watched after he led her into a private room at a party on “Horizon Worlds,”—a metaverse platform released by Meta last December in the US and Canada that allows users to gather with others, play games and build their own virtual worlds.

Even though everything is happening virtually, the woman could sense the unwanted touch and grope through the VR controllers.

In the Metaverse, when a user is touched by another, the hand controllers vibrate, “creating a very disorienting and even disturbing physical experience during a virtual assault.”

“It happened so fast I kind of disassociated. One part of my brain was like ‘WTF is happening,’ the other part was like ‘this isn’t a real body,’ and another part was like, ‘this is important research,’” the unnamed researcher said in the report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/what-is-metaverse-the-new-buzzword-in-internet-technology-412364">What is metaverse, the new buzzword in internet technology?</a>

The watchdog also pointed out that “VR users have long reported problems with sexual harassment, verbal abuse, racial slurs and invasion of personal space on a myriad of apps.”

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/metaverse-electric-cars-brain-tech-take-a-look-at-how-the-future-of-technology-will-look-like-443374">Metaverse, electric cars, brain tech: Take a look at how the future of technology will look like</a>

Responding to the incident, a representative for Meta told the Daily Mail, “We don’t recommend turning off the safety feature with people you do not know.”

The SumOfUs report also listed other cases of sexual harassment that have occurred in the metaverse.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Metaverse was launched with much fanfare and optimism by Mark Zuckerberg for connecting people online that encompasses augmented and virtual reality. However, as is the case with social media platforms where bullying and cybercrime are rampant, Metaverse, too, has its own share of vices.

Metaverse was launched with much fanfare and optimism by Mark Zuckerberg for connecting people online that encompasses augmented and virtual reality. However, as is the case with social media platforms where bullying and cybercrime are rampant, Metaverse, too, has its own share of vices. According to an online watchdog, within an hour of entering the Metaverse, a 21-year-old woman was sexually assaulted and harassed virtually. A report — titled “Metaverse: another cesspool of toxic content” — said that the woman was raped within one hour of being in the metaverse, according to a new report from SumOfUs, a “nonprofit advocacy organization and online community that campaigns to hold corporations accountable” for a variety of alleged infractions, reports Daily Mail. The unnamed woman, who works as a researcher for SumOfUs‚ claimed that her avatar was raped while other users watched after he led her into a private room at a party on “Horizon Worlds,”—a metaverse platform released by Meta last December in the US and Canada that allows users to gather with others, play games and build their own virtual worlds. Even though everything is happening virtually, the woman could sense the unwanted touch and grope through the VR controllers. In the Metaverse, when a user is touched by another, the hand controllers vibrate, “creating a very disorienting and even disturbing physical experience during a virtual assault.” “It happened so fast I kind of disassociated. One part of my brain was like ‘WTF is happening,’ the other part was like ‘this isn’t a real body,’ and another part was like, ‘this is important research,’” the unnamed researcher said in the report. Also read | What is metaverse, the new buzzword in internet technology? The watchdog also pointed out that “VR users have long reported problems with sexual harassment, verbal abuse, racial slurs and invasion of personal space on a myriad of apps.” Also read | Metaverse, electric cars, brain tech: Take a look at how the future of technology will look like Responding to the incident, a representative for Meta told the Daily Mail, “We don’t recommend turning off the safety feature with people you do not know.” The SumOfUs report also listed other cases of sexual harassment that have occurred in the metaverse. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

21-year-old woman virtually raped, harassed in metaverse: Report

A bill has been passed in the lower house of Spain's parliament on Thursday to qualify all kinds of non-consensual sex as rape, media reports said. The move has come over social outrage after the Wolf Pack case triggered momentum to the women's rights movement in Spain. Known as "Only yes is yes", the legislation, which is proposed by the government, has qualified the crimes of sexual abuse and sexual assault as rape. When it becomes a law, the victims will not have to prove violence or resistance. &nbsp;

In Congress, Equality Minister Irene Montero told lawmakers, "The (mottos) 'only yes is yes' and 'sister I do believe you' finally turn into a law. From now on, Spain is a freer and safer country for all women." &nbsp;

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The legislation, which was being worked out for over two years, was passed in the parliament with 195 votes and three abstentions. The bill will now be tabled in the upper house. If it gets passed after the vote, it will enter into force. The minority leftist government of the country has been looking to combat gender violence for a long time. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A bill has been passed in the lower house of Spain's parliament on Thursday to qualify all kinds of non-consensual sex as rape, media reports said. The move has come over social outrage after the Wolf Pack case triggered momentum to the women's rights movement in Spain.

A bill has been passed in the lower house of Spain's parliament on Thursday to qualify all kinds of non-consensual sex as rape, media reports said. The move has come over social outrage after the Wolf Pack case triggered momentum to the women's rights movement in Spain. Known as "Only yes is yes", the legislation, which is proposed by the government, has qualified the crimes of sexual abuse and sexual assault as rape. When it becomes a law, the victims will not have to prove violence or resistance. In Congress, Equality Minister Irene Montero told lawmakers, "The (mottos) 'only yes is yes' and 'sister I do believe you' finally turn into a law. From now on, Spain is a freer and safer country for all women." WATCH WION LIVE HERE The legislation, which was being worked out for over two years, was passed in the parliament with 195 votes and three abstentions. The bill will now be tabled in the upper house. If it gets passed after the vote, it will enter into force. The minority leftist government of the country has been looking to combat gender violence for a long time. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Spain parliament’s lower house passes bill to term all non-consensual sex as rape

A bill has been passed in the lower house of Spain's parliament on Thursday to qualify all kinds of non-consensual sex as rape. The move has come over social outrage after the Wolf Pack case triggered momentum to the women's rights movement in the country.

Spain passes bill to term all non-consensual sex as rape

Cannes Film Festival’s red carpet witnessed a gate crasher on Friday. The person was a woman, who stripped off her clothes, to share a message against rape, media reports said. The incident happened during the premiere of George Miller's 'Three Thousand Years of Longing'. The message 'Stop raping us' was written on her torso. It was next to the blue and yellow colours of the Ukraine flag. Red colour was also painted on the legs of the unidentified woman. &nbsp;

She also shouted 'Don't rape us!' as the security encircled her quickly to take her off the red carpet. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/madhavans-rocketry-the-nambi-effect-premieres-at-cannes-2022-receives-standing-ovation-480681" hreflang="en">Madhavan's 'Rocketry: The Nambi Effect' premieres at Cannes 2022, receives standing ovation&nbsp;</a>

The incident again brought to light the Ukraine crisis at Cannes. Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had delivered a message on the opening of the festival. He had made a call to speak out against the war. &nbsp;

"We need a new (Charlie) Chaplin to prove that today cinema is not silent," said Zelensky. The president was referring to satire of Adolf Hitler created by Charlie Chaplin at the outset of WWII in 1939. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Watch Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's 20-year journey at the Cannes film festival

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During the opening ceremony, the Ukraine leader, through a live video link from Kyiv, said, "We must be victorious. We need cinema to guarantee this ending, that each time it will be on the side of freedom." &nbsp;

Several films by Ukrainian filmmakers are also being screened at the festival. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Cannes Film Festival’s red carpet witnessed a gate crasher on Friday. The person was a woman, who stripped off her clothes, to share a message against rape, media reports said.

Cannes Film Festival’s red carpet witnessed a gate crasher on Friday. The person was a woman, who stripped off her clothes, to share a message against rape, media reports said. The incident happened during the premiere of George Miller's 'Three Thousand Years of Longing'. The message 'Stop raping us' was written on her torso. It was next to the blue and yellow colours of the Ukraine flag. Red colour was also painted on the legs of the unidentified woman. She also shouted 'Don't rape us!' as the security encircled her quickly to take her off the red carpet. Also Read | Madhavan's 'Rocketry: The Nambi Effect' premieres at Cannes 2022, receives standing ovation The incident again brought to light the Ukraine crisis at Cannes. Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had delivered a message on the opening of the festival. He had made a call to speak out against the war. "We need a new (Charlie) Chaplin to prove that today cinema is not silent," said Zelensky. The president was referring to satire of Adolf Hitler created by Charlie Chaplin at the outset of WWII in 1939. Watch: Watch Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's 20-year journey at the Cannes film festival × During the opening ceremony, the Ukraine leader, through a live video link from Kyiv, said, "We must be victorious. We need cinema to guarantee this ending, that each time it will be on the side of freedom." Several films by Ukrainian filmmakers are also being screened at the festival. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Unidentified woman crashes red carpet, strips to share message against rape at Cannes Film Festival  

More trouble for Conservatives of Britain as an unidentified lawmaker from the party has been held on the suspicion of rape, media reports said. On Tuesday, the party said it had asked the MP to stay away from Parliament. This comes as the unnamed leader, said to be in his 50s, is under police investigation on the suspicion of rape and sexual assault offenses. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-employment-level-falls-to-record-low-labour-shortage-persists-479920" hreflang="en">UK employment level falls to record low; labour shortage persists</a>

In a statement, the Conservative whips office said, "Until the conclusion of the investigation, we will not be commenting further." &nbsp;

The man still remains in custody, the police said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On the suspicion of indecent assault, misconduct in public office and abuse of position of trust, the suspect, who has not been identified, was arrested, said London's Metropolitan Police. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The police claimed that it got a report in January 2020 over the alleged offenses said to have been committed from 2002 to 2009 in London. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;UK PM Boris Johnson urges for change in Brexit rules, calls Northern Ireland protocol 'outdated'

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Earlier, 65-year-old British lawmaker Neil Parish, who had been suspended from the Conservative parliamentary party, had resigned and said sorry for ‘moment of madness’ when he was caught watching porn in in the House of Commons. UK’s parliament had faced immense criticism over the issue. &nbsp;

Another Conservative lawmaker, Imran Ahmad Khan, was also forced to resign recently on being convicted of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old boy.

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(With inputs from agencies)

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More trouble for Conservatives of Britain as an unidentified lawmaker from the party has been held on the suspicion of rape, media reports said. On Tuesday, the party said it had asked the MP to stay away from Parliament.

More trouble for Conservatives of Britain as an unidentified lawmaker from the party has been held on the suspicion of rape, media reports said. On Tuesday, the party said it had asked the MP to stay away from Parliament. This comes as the unnamed leader, said to be in his 50s, is under police investigation on the suspicion of rape and sexual assault offenses. Also Read: UK employment level falls to record low; labour shortage persists In a statement, the Conservative whips office said, "Until the conclusion of the investigation, we will not be commenting further." The man still remains in custody, the police said. On the suspicion of indecent assault, misconduct in public office and abuse of position of trust, the suspect, who has not been identified, was arrested, said London's Metropolitan Police. The police claimed that it got a report in January 2020 over the alleged offenses said to have been committed from 2002 to 2009 in London. Watch: UK PM Boris Johnson urges for change in Brexit rules, calls Northern Ireland protocol 'outdated' × Earlier, 65-year-old British lawmaker Neil Parish, who had been suspended from the Conservative parliamentary party, had resigned and said sorry for ‘moment of madness’ when he was caught watching porn in in the House of Commons. UK’s parliament had faced immense criticism over the issue. Another Conservative lawmaker, Imran Ahmad Khan, was also forced to resign recently on being convicted of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old boy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

UK’s parliament in trouble again? Unidentified lawmaker arrested over suspicion of rape, say police

In Canada, self-induced extreme intoxication or drinking too much alcohol to the point that you lose control is a valid defence for violent crimes like homicide and sexual assault.

The Supreme Court of Canada, on Friday, ruled that a 1995 law that prohibits this defence was unconstitutional and in violation of the country's Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Because of this defendants can now claim that their heinous actions were involuntary and a result of consuming alcohol or drugs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/making-comments-about-a-mans-baldness-is-now-sexual-harassment-478676" hreflang="en">Calling a man 'bald' is sexual harassment, equal to commenting on woman's breasts, says British tribunal</a>

This defence will make it so that they can't be held criminally liable for their actions.&nbsp;When a person uses an extreme intoxication or 'non-mental disorder automatism' defence, they claim they are not in their senses or had grossly impaired consciousness due to the drugs or alcohol in their systems.&nbsp;

The issue of this law's constitutionality came to light in connection with three separate cases.&nbsp;

As part of the Friday ruling, the court upheld the acquittal in two of the cases and said a trial can be ordered in the third one.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: UK's 'epidemic of violence' against women

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One of the cases involved a man named David Sullivan, who in December 2013 attempted suicide by consuming a prescription drug that has the side effect of psychosis. In the psychotic state, he then stabbed his mother, thinking she was an alien.&nbsp;

He was convicted of aggravated assault and assault with a weapon. An appeal court found the sentence unfair and said that the 1995 law was unconstitutional, acquitting David.

This acquittal has now been upheld.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oblivious-to-the-heists-value-thieves-in-hong-kong-sell-a-292-million-scroll-for-25-478705" hreflang="en">Oblivious to the heist's value, thieves in Hong Kong sell a $292 million scroll for $25</a>

As per the court, intoxication that does not cause automatism' is not a defence for violent crimes like murder or sexual assault.

While the courts have for years been divided on the issue, women advocacy groups have long supported the 1995 law. According to them, this law is essential for preventing violence against women and children.

In Canada, as per government data, women account for four out of five victims of abuse, or violence at the hands of a partner. Additionally, women are five times more likely to experience sexual assault.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Canada, self-induced extreme intoxication or drinking too much alcohol to the point that you lose control is a valid defence for violent crimes like homicide and sexual assault.

In Canada, self-induced extreme intoxication or drinking too much alcohol to the point that you lose control is a valid defence for violent crimes like homicide and sexual assault. The Supreme Court of Canada, on Friday, ruled that a 1995 law that prohibits this defence was unconstitutional and in violation of the country's Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Because of this defendants can now claim that their heinous actions were involuntary and a result of consuming alcohol or drugs. Also read | Calling a man 'bald' is sexual harassment, equal to commenting on woman's breasts, says British tribunal This defence will make it so that they can't be held criminally liable for their actions. When a person uses an extreme intoxication or 'non-mental disorder automatism' defence, they claim they are not in their senses or had grossly impaired consciousness due to the drugs or alcohol in their systems. The issue of this law's constitutionality came to light in connection with three separate cases. As part of the Friday ruling, the court upheld the acquittal in two of the cases and said a trial can be ordered in the third one. Watch | Gravitas: UK's 'epidemic of violence' against women One of the cases involved a man named David Sullivan, who in December 2013 attempted suicide by consuming a prescription drug that has the side effect of psychosis. In the psychotic state, he then stabbed his mother, thinking she was an alien. He was convicted of aggravated assault and assault with a weapon. An appeal court found the sentence unfair and said that the 1995 law was unconstitutional, acquitting David. This acquittal has now been upheld. Also read | Oblivious to the heist's value, thieves in Hong Kong sell a $292 million scroll for $25 As per the court, intoxication that does not cause automatism' is not a defence for violent crimes like murder or sexual assault. While the courts have for years been divided on the issue, women advocacy groups have long supported the 1995 law. According to them, this law is essential for preventing violence against women and children. In Canada, as per government data, women account for four out of five victims of abuse, or violence at the hands of a partner. Additionally, women are five times more likely to experience sexual assault. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE:

In Canada, extreme intoxication is now a defence for heinous crimes like murder, rape

United Nations and Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday (May 4) that Russian soldiers were allegedly raping men and boys in Ukraine.

“I have received reports, not yet verified… about sexual violence cases against men and boys in Ukraine.” said Pramila Patten, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

She underlined challenges male survivors of rape would face in reporting the crime. She said that while it was hard for women to report sexual violence due to the social stigma, it may be even harder for men to admit and openly report that they had been sexually assaulted.

'Bloody battles' continue inside Azovstal steel plant, at least 200 civilians trapped

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“I am working with the different UN agencies to ensure that there are services adapted to the needs of men and boys, because everywhere in many conflict situations, I have observed that there is a lack of services adapted to the needs of men and boys,” she added.

Patten said that cases of sexual assault against men reported and under investigation till now were just "tip of the iceberg". &nbsp;

She urged survivors of sexual violence to come forward and report the cases to the authorities.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-troops-fight-for-control-of-last-ukrainian-stronghold-in-mariupol-476439">Russian troops fight for control of last Ukrainian stronghold in Mariupol</a>

“My promise to you is that international law will not be an empty promise. Today’s documentation will be tomorrow’s prosecution. And I want you to know that your rights don’t end when wars begin,” she said.

Pramila Patten was speaking at a press conference in Kyiv. With her was Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration.

She described sexual violence in war as “one of the most silent types of crime”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

United Nations and Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday (May 4) that Russian soldiers were allegedly raping men and boys in Ukraine. “I have received reports, not yet verified… about sexual violence cases against men and boys in Ukraine.

United Nations and Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday (May 4) that Russian soldiers were allegedly raping men and boys in Ukraine. “I have received reports, not yet verified… about sexual violence cases against men and boys in Ukraine.” said Pramila Patten, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict. She underlined challenges male survivors of rape would face in reporting the crime. She said that while it was hard for women to report sexual violence due to the social stigma, it may be even harder for men to admit and openly report that they had been sexually assaulted. 'Bloody battles' continue inside Azovstal steel plant, at least 200 civilians trapped × “I am working with the different UN agencies to ensure that there are services adapted to the needs of men and boys, because everywhere in many conflict situations, I have observed that there is a lack of services adapted to the needs of men and boys,” she added. Patten said that cases of sexual assault against men reported and under investigation till now were just "tip of the iceberg". She urged survivors of sexual violence to come forward and report the cases to the authorities. Also Read | Russian troops fight for control of last Ukrainian stronghold in Mariupol “My promise to you is that international law will not be an empty promise. Today’s documentation will be tomorrow’s prosecution. And I want you to know that your rights don’t end when wars begin,” she said. Pramila Patten was speaking at a press conference in Kyiv. With her was Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration. She described sexual violence in war as “one of the most silent types of crime”. (With inputs from agencies) Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russian soldiers are raping men and boys in Ukraine, says UN official

Popular producer-actor Vijay Babu has been booked for allegedly raping a female actor and then revealing her identity during a Facebook live session.&nbsp; 
 
The survivor filed a complaint and the actor had been absconding ever since he was booked for rape only to appear in a Facebook live session and claiming innocence and saying he is the real victim.&nbsp; 
 
Babu, who owns, the production company Friday Film House, disclosed the survivor's name and identity during the live session- an offence which led to police filing another case on him.&nbsp; 
 
"A rape case was registered against him first. As he disclosed the victim's identity, another case was also filed. It seems that he is out of the station and absconding now," a senior police officer told news agency PTI.&nbsp; 
 
The woman, who appeared in movies produced by Vijay Babu's production house, lodged a complaint with the police on April 22 and detailed through a Facebook post the physical assault and sexual exploitation she had allegedly suffered at the hands of the producer-actor for the past one and half months.&nbsp; 
 
"He behaved like my saviour for my personal and professional problems but under the guise sexually exploited me," the female actor alleged in the FB post.&nbsp; 
 
She further alleged that his modus operandi was trapping her with the role of a "saviour cum friend cum lover" and thereafter intoxicating and sexually abusing her several times in the past one and half months.&nbsp;

The woman also alleged that Babu forced her to consume alcohol and 'happy pill,' a drug. She expressed fear over discussing the assault and exploitation to others because of his clout in the film industry and stated there were other women too who had faced similar issues with Babu in the past.&nbsp; 
 
"I got to know that there are several other women who have been subjected to this trap by Vijay Babu. He has recorded a nude video of mine and threatened me with its consequences and also threatened my life," the survivor alleged.&nbsp; 
 
However, Babu, in a Facebook live on Tuesday, denied the charges but admitted that he knew the female actor for the past five years. Besides denying the charges, the producer also said he would file a defamation suit against the complainant for tarnishing his image.&nbsp; 
 
He mentioned the name of the survivor several times during the FB live saying that he was doing it deliberately as she was not the victim and he was the real victim in the case. 
 
(With agency inputs)

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Popular producer-actor Vijay Babu has been booked for allegedly raping a female actor and then revealing her identity during a Facebook live session. The survivor filed a complaint and the actor had been absconding ever since he was booked for rape only to appear in a Facebook live session and claiming innocence and saying he is the real victim.

Popular producer-actor Vijay Babu has been booked for allegedly raping a female actor and then revealing her identity during a Facebook live session. The survivor filed a complaint and the actor had been absconding ever since he was booked for rape only to appear in a Facebook live session and claiming innocence and saying he is the real victim. Babu, who owns, the production company Friday Film House, disclosed the survivor's name and identity during the live session- an offence which led to police filing another case on him. "A rape case was registered against him first. As he disclosed the victim's identity, another case was also filed. It seems that he is out of the station and absconding now," a senior police officer told news agency PTI. The woman, who appeared in movies produced by Vijay Babu's production house, lodged a complaint with the police on April 22 and detailed through a Facebook post the physical assault and sexual exploitation she had allegedly suffered at the hands of the producer-actor for the past one and half months. "He behaved like my saviour for my personal and professional problems but under the guise sexually exploited me," the female actor alleged in the FB post. She further alleged that his modus operandi was trapping her with the role of a "saviour cum friend cum lover" and thereafter intoxicating and sexually abusing her several times in the past one and half months. The woman also alleged that Babu forced her to consume alcohol and 'happy pill,' a drug. She expressed fear over discussing the assault and exploitation to others because of his clout in the film industry and stated there were other women too who had faced similar issues with Babu in the past. "I got to know that there are several other women who have been subjected to this trap by Vijay Babu. He has recorded a nude video of mine and threatened me with its consequences and also threatened my life," the survivor alleged. However, Babu, in a Facebook live on Tuesday, denied the charges but admitted that he knew the female actor for the past five years. Besides denying the charges, the producer also said he would file a defamation suit against the complainant for tarnishing his image. He mentioned the name of the survivor several times during the FB live saying that he was doing it deliberately as she was not the victim and he was the real victim in the case. (With agency inputs)

Indian film producer-actor Vijay Babu booked for rape, revealing survivor's identity on social media

Amid “unhealthy sexual behaviour” incidents being reported in London Underground, a top police officer has called for stringent actions against those indulging&nbsp;in “intense staring”.

Det Supt Sarah White, a senior British Transport Police (BTP) officer, has issued a warning to suspects whose stare “show behaviours that are unhealthy”.

“It’s human nature to stare at things. However, it’s very different when someone is staring, leering, or there’s a sexual motivation,” DS White told The Telegraph.

“We want to know about that staring because that is the behaviour that suggests to me that someone is thinking about a sexual behaviour that supports that staring.”

The detective warned that such crimes would be recorded, adding “We have had successful prosecutions in that field.”

The top detective’s comments came in response to a campaign that was launched last month by the Transport for London to raise awareness on “common examples” of harassment, including upskirting, cat calling and exposing among others, the Daily Mail reported.

As part of the initiative, posters were installed on trains, saying, “Intrusive staring of a sexual nature is sexual harassment and is not tolerated.”

However, the campaign was severely criticised for including staring.

Reports of sexual harassment have spiked by 175 per cent in Brittan’s transport network since the end of Covid lockdown, The Telegraph reported citing data from Office for National Statistics (ONS).

From 2020-2021 march, 995 reports of sexual offences were recorded in the Tube compared to 361 cases in the financial year ending March 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid “unhealthy sexual behaviour” incidents being reported in London Underground, a top police officer has called for stringent actions against those indulging in “intense staring”.

Amid “unhealthy sexual behaviour” incidents being reported in London Underground, a top police officer has called for stringent actions against those indulging in “intense staring”. Det Supt Sarah White, a senior British Transport Police (BTP) officer, has issued a warning to suspects whose stare “show behaviours that are unhealthy”. “It’s human nature to stare at things. However, it’s very different when someone is staring, leering, or there’s a sexual motivation,” DS White told The Telegraph. “We want to know about that staring because that is the behaviour that suggests to me that someone is thinking about a sexual behaviour that supports that staring.” The detective warned that such crimes would be recorded, adding “We have had successful prosecutions in that field.” The top detective’s comments came in response to a campaign that was launched last month by the Transport for London to raise awareness on “common examples” of harassment, including upskirting, cat calling and exposing among others, the Daily Mail reported. As part of the initiative, posters were installed on trains, saying, “Intrusive staring of a sexual nature is sexual harassment and is not tolerated.” However, the campaign was severely criticised for including staring. Reports of sexual harassment have spiked by 175 per cent in Brittan’s transport network since the end of Covid lockdown, The Telegraph reported citing data from Office for National Statistics (ONS). From 2020-2021 march, 995 reports of sexual offences were recorded in the Tube compared to 361 cases in the financial year ending March 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Staring at women for long can land you in jail, warn UK police

Top UN officials called for a probe of Russia's aggression against women during its invasion of Ukraine, as well as the protection of children caught up in the conflict, on Monday.

"We are increasingly hearing of rape and sexual violence. These allegations must be independently investigated to ensure justice and accountability,"&nbsp;Sima Bahous, the UN's women's agency's director, said at a Security Council meeting in New York.

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It was unclear whether any probe would be approved by the Security Council, where Russia has&nbsp;veto-wielding powers.

"This war must stop. Now," said Bahous.

The combination of huge displacement with the large presence of conscripts and mercenaries, and the cruelty demonstrated towards the Ukrainian people, has triggered all red lights,&nbsp;according to Bahous.

On Monday, Russia, however, once again disputed claims made by Security Council members.

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Dmitry Polyansky, Russia's deputy UN ambassador, urged the group to respect the "presumption of innocence" and stressed that his country's "special military operation" was meant to "save Ukraine's future."

"We know and see - and we want you to hear our voices - that violence and rape is used now as a weapon of war by Russian invaders in Ukraine."&nbsp;Kateryna Cherepakha, president of the rights group La Strada-Ukraine, told the Council via video.

The charges were refuted by Russia's deputy UN ambassador, who accused Ukraine and its allies of having a clear intention to portray Russian servicemen as "sadists and rapists."

According to a report by BBC, they have independently sought out and discovered mounting evidence of rape being used as a punishing tactic by the invading soldiers. Their report includes graphic descriptions of sexual violence against women and girls of all ages.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-un-to-vote-on-expelling-russia-from-human-rights-council-469160" hreflang="en">Explained: UN to vote on expelling Russia from Human Rights Council</a>

One incident reported involves a 50-year-old woman who was raped and her husband killed, another had a 16-year-old raped in the street right in front of her 25-year-old sister with the invading soldiers yelling 'this will happen to every Nazi prostitute'.

The same BBC report also mentions, that Lyudmyla Denisova, Ukraine's human rights ombudsman, said that other such examples are being documented.

"About 25 girls and women aged 14 to 24 were systematically raped during the occupation in the basement of one house in Bucha. Nine of them are pregnant," she said. "Russian soldiers told them they would rape them to the point where they wouldn't want sexual contact with any man, to prevent them from having Ukrainian children."

(With inputs from agencies)

Top UN officials called for a probe of Russia's aggression against women during its invasion of Ukraine, as well as the protection of children caught up in the conflict, on Monday.

Top UN officials called for a probe of Russia's aggression against women during its invasion of Ukraine, as well as the protection of children caught up in the conflict, on Monday. "We are increasingly hearing of rape and sexual violence. These allegations must be independently investigated to ensure justice and accountability," Sima Bahous, the UN's women's agency's director, said at a Security Council meeting in New York. Also read | Russian forces are setting the stage for a new offensive in Ukraine’s east It was unclear whether any probe would be approved by the Security Council, where Russia has veto-wielding powers. "This war must stop. Now," said Bahous. The combination of huge displacement with the large presence of conscripts and mercenaries, and the cruelty demonstrated towards the Ukrainian people, has triggered all red lights, according to Bahous. On Monday, Russia, however, once again disputed claims made by Security Council members. Watch | Russia threatens legal action if forced into sovereign debt default Dmitry Polyansky, Russia's deputy UN ambassador, urged the group to respect the "presumption of innocence" and stressed that his country's "special military operation" was meant to "save Ukraine's future." "We know and see - and we want you to hear our voices - that violence and rape is used now as a weapon of war by Russian invaders in Ukraine." Kateryna Cherepakha, president of the rights group La Strada-Ukraine, told the Council via video. The charges were refuted by Russia's deputy UN ambassador, who accused Ukraine and its allies of having a clear intention to portray Russian servicemen as "sadists and rapists." According to a report by BBC, they have independently sought out and discovered mounting evidence of rape being used as a punishing tactic by the invading soldiers. Their report includes graphic descriptions of sexual violence against women and girls of all ages. Also read | Explained: UN to vote on expelling Russia from Human Rights Council One incident reported involves a 50-year-old woman who was raped and her husband killed, another had a 16-year-old raped in the street right in front of her 25-year-old sister with the invading soldiers yelling 'this will happen to every Nazi prostitute'. The same BBC report also mentions, that Lyudmyla Denisova, Ukraine's human rights ombudsman, said that other such examples are being documented. "About 25 girls and women aged 14 to 24 were systematically raped during the occupation in the basement of one house in Bucha. Nine of them are pregnant," she said. "Russian soldiers told them they would rape them to the point where they wouldn't want sexual contact with any man, to prevent them from having Ukrainian children." (With inputs from agencies)

'Sadists, rapists': Russian forces using rape as punishing tactic in Ukraine, UN women's body voices concern

An Indonesian court on Monday sentenced a teacher to death for raping 13 girls at an Islamic school, upholding the prosecutor’s plea for death penalty.

The case of Herry Wirawan has stunned Indonesia and has drawn attention to the need to protect children from sexual violence in religious boarding schools.

Wirawan was initially sentenced to life in prison. However, the prosecutor who had requested the death penalty filed an appeal after Wirawan was sentenced to life in prison by court in Bandung in February.

The judge in a statement on Monday said that&nbsp;the defendant will now be&nbsp;punished with the death penalty. Herry’s lawyer, Ira Mambo, declined to comment on whether an appeal would be filed, citing the need to see the full court judgement.

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During the&nbsp;February trial, it was revealed that Herry sexually abused 13 girls between the years 2016 and 2021, his victims were between the ages of 12 to 16 and eight of them fell pregnant following the rape.

The uncle of one of Herry's victims, Hidmat Dijaya said that "we initially wanted punishments of life in prison and chemical castration so that he would feel the pain from his crime", but that they feel "the death sentence represents justice."

The rape case in Bandung has also brought attention to the issue of sexual abuse in Indonesian schools, with 14 of the 18 incidents reported to the Child Protection Commission last year occurring in Islamic boarding schools.

Officials in Indonesia, including the country’s child protection minister, have backed calls for the death sentence, despite the fact that the country’s human rights commission thinks the declared death penalty is not appropriate.

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Indonesia is the world’s largest Muslim majority country, includes tens of thousands of Islamic boarding schools and some other religious schools, which are often the only way for children from poor families to get&nbsp;educated.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indonesian court on Monday sentenced a teacher to death for raping 13 girls at an Islamic school, upholding the prosecutor’s plea for death penalty. The case of Herry Wirawan has stunned Indonesia and has drawn attention to the need to protect children from sexual violence in religious boarding schools.

An Indonesian court on Monday sentenced a teacher to death for raping 13 girls at an Islamic school, upholding the prosecutor’s plea for death penalty. The case of Herry Wirawan has stunned Indonesia and has drawn attention to the need to protect children from sexual violence in religious boarding schools. Wirawan was initially sentenced to life in prison. However, the prosecutor who had requested the death penalty filed an appeal after Wirawan was sentenced to life in prison by court in Bandung in February. The judge in a statement on Monday said that the defendant will now be punished with the death penalty. Herry’s lawyer, Ira Mambo, declined to comment on whether an appeal would be filed, citing the need to see the full court judgement. Also read | Indonesia greets Ramadan with mass prayer as Covid curbs ease During the February trial, it was revealed that Herry sexually abused 13 girls between the years 2016 and 2021, his victims were between the ages of 12 to 16 and eight of them fell pregnant following the rape. The uncle of one of Herry's victims, Hidmat Dijaya said that "we initially wanted punishments of life in prison and chemical castration so that he would feel the pain from his crime", but that they feel "the death sentence represents justice." The rape case in Bandung has also brought attention to the issue of sexual abuse in Indonesian schools, with 14 of the 18 incidents reported to the Child Protection Commission last year occurring in Islamic boarding schools. Officials in Indonesia, including the country’s child protection minister, have backed calls for the death sentence, despite the fact that the country’s human rights commission thinks the declared death penalty is not appropriate. Also read | A new hope? Rare Sumatran rhino born in captivity in Indonesia Indonesia is the world’s largest Muslim majority country, includes tens of thousands of Islamic boarding schools and some other religious schools, which are often the only way for children from poor families to get educated. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesian teacher condemned to death for raping 13 students

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday revised a law under which the age of sexual consent has now been raised to 16. As per child rights activists, this move will protect youngsters from rape and abuse.&nbsp;

Under the new law, sex with a person under 16 will be illegal. It will also carry a maximum penalty of 40 years in jail.&nbsp;

Earlier, the nation had one of the lowest ages of consent in the world. It allowed adults to have sex with children as young as 12 if they agreed.

Margarita Ardivilla, child protection specialist at the UN children's fund UNICEF in the Philippines said, "Having this law is a very good protective instrument for our children from sexual violence, whether or not it starts online or whether or not it also starts in a face-to-face encounter."

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"It is very important to have a clear age to determine statutory rape and the below 12 of a 1930 law was just something that was unjustifiable."

A joint 2015 study by UNICEF and the Center for women's resources, which is a local non-governmental group, showed that 7 out of 10 rape victims in the Philippines were children. The study further revealed that one in every five respondents aged 13 to 17 reported experiencing sexual violence.&nbsp;

Also, one in 25 experienced forced consummated sex during childhood.&nbsp;

As per Rowena Legaspi, executive director of the Children's Legal Rights and Development Center, the law "sends a very strong message that child rape is a heinous crime and must be punished accordingly."

(With inputs from agencies)

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday revised a law under which the age of sexual consent has now been raised to 16. As per child rights activists, this move will protect youngsters from rape and abuse.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday revised a law under which the age of sexual consent has now been raised to 16. As per child rights activists, this move will protect youngsters from rape and abuse. Under the new law, sex with a person under 16 will be illegal. It will also carry a maximum penalty of 40 years in jail. Earlier, the nation had one of the lowest ages of consent in the world. It allowed adults to have sex with children as young as 12 if they agreed. Margarita Ardivilla, child protection specialist at the UN children's fund UNICEF in the Philippines said, "Having this law is a very good protective instrument for our children from sexual violence, whether or not it starts online or whether or not it also starts in a face-to-face encounter." Also read | As pandemic enters third year, Covid related deaths to soon reach 6 million "It is very important to have a clear age to determine statutory rape and the below 12 of a 1930 law was just something that was unjustifiable." A joint 2015 study by UNICEF and the Center for women's resources, which is a local non-governmental group, showed that 7 out of 10 rape victims in the Philippines were children. The study further revealed that one in every five respondents aged 13 to 17 reported experiencing sexual violence. Also, one in 25 experienced forced consummated sex during childhood. As per Rowena Legaspi, executive director of the Children's Legal Rights and Development Center, the law "sends a very strong message that child rape is a heinous crime and must be punished accordingly." (With inputs from agencies)

To prevent rape and abuse, Philippines raises age of sexual consent to 16

Indonesian court on Tuesday sentenced an Islamic school teacher to life in prison for raping 13 student. The case has drawn national attention to sexual abuse that has spotlighted the need to protect children from sexual violence in the country's religious boarding schools.

Indonesian court jails Islamic school teacher for raping 13 students

A court in Indonesia handed a life imprisonment sentence to a teacher found guilty of rape of 13 students. The case had drawn national attention to sexual abuse is some of Indonesia's religious boarding schools.

Herry Wirawan, 36, was found guilty of raping 13 female students -- all minors -- and impregnating at least eight of them by Bandung district court in West Java.

The revelations sparked national outrage, with a senior government official saying President Joko Widodo has paid special attention to the case.

A family of a female student reported Wirawan to the police last year for raping and impregnating their teenage daughter. The pattern of sexual abuse committed by Wirawan soon emerged.

During the trial, it was revealed he had raped the children -- many from poor families attending the school on scholarships -- over five years.

Prosecutors requested chemical castration and the death penalty for the accused, who asked the judge for leniency to allow him to raise his children.&nbsp; 
Wirawan arrived in court in handcuffs and kept his head down as judge Yohannes Purnomo Suryo Adi sentenced him to life in prison.

The court said restitution for the victims will be paid by the government.

The chairman of Indonesia's Child Protection Commission said Tuesday's verdict meant "justice for the victims has been served".

'There will be more'

But a family member of one of the victims told AFP he was "very disappointed" that Wirawan did not receive a harsher sentence and warned that leniency would embolden other abusers.

"This wound will never be healed as long as we live, maybe until we die. The pain we are feeling is indescribable. We don't feel heard," said Hidmat Dijaya, an uncle of one of the 13 victims.

"If the sentence is lenient like this, there will be more Islamic teachers who will abuse children," he added.

"We will let God as the highest judge punish him. We can only pray because those judges failed to represent our hurt and pain."

(With inputs from agencies)

A court in Indonesia handed a life imprisonment sentence to a teacher found guilty of rape of 13 students. The case had drawn national attention to sexual abuse is some of Indonesia's religious boarding schools.

A court in Indonesia handed a life imprisonment sentence to a teacher found guilty of rape of 13 students. The case had drawn national attention to sexual abuse is some of Indonesia's religious boarding schools. Herry Wirawan, 36, was found guilty of raping 13 female students -- all minors -- and impregnating at least eight of them by Bandung district court in West Java. The revelations sparked national outrage, with a senior government official saying President Joko Widodo has paid special attention to the case. A family of a female student reported Wirawan to the police last year for raping and impregnating their teenage daughter. The pattern of sexual abuse committed by Wirawan soon emerged. During the trial, it was revealed he had raped the children -- many from poor families attending the school on scholarships -- over five years. Prosecutors requested chemical castration and the death penalty for the accused, who asked the judge for leniency to allow him to raise his children. Wirawan arrived in court in handcuffs and kept his head down as judge Yohannes Purnomo Suryo Adi sentenced him to life in prison. The court said restitution for the victims will be paid by the government. The chairman of Indonesia's Child Protection Commission said Tuesday's verdict meant "justice for the victims has been served". 'There will be more' But a family member of one of the victims told AFP he was "very disappointed" that Wirawan did not receive a harsher sentence and warned that leniency would embolden other abusers. "This wound will never be healed as long as we live, maybe until we die. The pain we are feeling is indescribable. We don't feel heard," said Hidmat Dijaya, an uncle of one of the 13 victims. "If the sentence is lenient like this, there will be more Islamic teachers who will abuse children," he added. "We will let God as the highest judge punish him. We can only pray because those judges failed to represent our hurt and pain." (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesian teacher gets life in jail for raping 13 students

The DNA collected as part of a rape exam in San Francisco has been used by the local police to link a woman to a crime.

The city’s district attorney has alleged that the move violates the constitutional protection against unreasonable searches and seizures as well as California’s Victims’ Bill of Rights.

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The police crime lab “attempts to identify crime suspects” by searching a law enforcement database that includes DNA collected from sexual assault victims, District Attorney Chesa Boudin said.

“Rapes and sexual assault are violent, dehumanizing, and traumatic. I am disturbed that victims who have the courage to undergo an invasive examination to help identify their perpetrators are being treated like criminals rather than supported as crime victims,” Boudin said in a statement.&nbsp;

“We should encourage survivors to come forward — not collect evidence to use against them in the future.”

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“Getting a rape kit can be re-traumatizing. Having that DNA placed in a database for future use creates yet another incentive not to do it. It’s unacceptable,” said state senator Scott Wiener, who represents the city.

San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said he has ordered an investigation.

“We must never create disincentives for crime victims to cooperate with police, and if it’s true that DNA collected from a rape or sexual assault victim has been used by SFPD to identify and apprehend that person as a suspect in another crime, I’m committed to ending the practice,” he said.

San Francisco Supervisor Hillary Ronen said she learned about the alleged practice last weekend and has asked the city attorney’s office to draft legislation barring the use of rape kit evidence except to investigate the rape, the Chronicle reported.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The DNA collected as part of a rape exam in San Francisco has been used by the local police to link a woman to a crime. The city’s district attorney has alleged that the move violates the constitutional protection against unreasonable searches and seizures as well as California’s Victims’ Bill of Rights.

The DNA collected as part of a rape exam in San Francisco has been used by the local police to link a woman to a crime. The city’s district attorney has alleged that the move violates the constitutional protection against unreasonable searches and seizures as well as California’s Victims’ Bill of Rights. The police crime lab “attempts to identify crime suspects” by searching a law enforcement database that includes DNA collected from sexual assault victims, District Attorney Chesa Boudin said. “Rapes and sexual assault are violent, dehumanizing, and traumatic. I am disturbed that victims who have the courage to undergo an invasive examination to help identify their perpetrators are being treated like criminals rather than supported as crime victims,” Boudin said in a statement. “We should encourage survivors to come forward — not collect evidence to use against them in the future.” Also read | Assaulted in Metaverse: Woman alleges 'gang rape' 60 seconds after joining Meta's virtual world “Getting a rape kit can be re-traumatizing. Having that DNA placed in a database for future use creates yet another incentive not to do it. It’s unacceptable,” said state senator Scott Wiener, who represents the city. San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said he has ordered an investigation. “We must never create disincentives for crime victims to cooperate with police, and if it’s true that DNA collected from a rape or sexual assault victim has been used by SFPD to identify and apprehend that person as a suspect in another crime, I’m committed to ending the practice,” he said. San Francisco Supervisor Hillary Ronen said she learned about the alleged practice last weekend and has asked the city attorney’s office to draft legislation barring the use of rape kit evidence except to investigate the rape, the Chronicle reported. (With inputs from agencies)

San Francisco: DNA collected as part of rape exam used to link a woman to a crime

Women living in Ethiopia's conflict torn-Tigray region, it is a state of never-ending nightmare. In the latest, UN deputy secretary has called for justice against the unimaginable horrors that women of the region have to face.

Ethiopia: UN report on horrific accounts of rape and torture in Tigray region

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