‘Nothing about us without us’: The emergence and evolution of survivor-centred approaches to conflict-related sexual violence

This paper considers the trajectory of the concept of ‘survivor-centred approaches’ in responses to conflict-related sexual violence across the past decade. Drawing on the most recent literature, the review traces the evolution of the concept of ‘survivor centred approaches’ from its emergence to its almost ubiquitous use in rhetoric and policy, the elaboration of its meaning and clarification of its core elements, and its translation into, and innovation in, practice. At this moment of crisis for international norms, the paper considers the gaps, challenges and headwinds that lie ahead for ‘survivor-centred approaches’ as a norm and offers suggestions for how this important concept can be strengthened and advanced.