The LRA’s tactics had a disproportionate impact on women and girls, many of whom were abducted and subjected to severe abuse, including forced marriages, sexual violence, and forced labour (Stewart, 2020). The conflict also led to widespread war-related disabilities. Many women suffered permanent injuries from landmines and gunfire, as well as extreme acts of violence such as amputations, mutilation of lips, and other forms of bodily harm. Some victims experienced horrific cruelty, including facial disfigurement and other disabling injuries that left long-lasting physical and psychological effects (Annan et al., 2019).
Abducted women endured multiple layers of suffering; beyond physical and sexual violence, they carried deep psychological trauma. The forced roles imposed on them disrupted their life trajectories, resulting in long-term social and economic difficulties upon their return. Furthermore, stigma associated with abduction, along with children born from forced unions, made reintegration into society even more challenging (Carlson & Mazurana, 2008).
