In this second part of our conversation, Dr. Miranda Melcher continues speaking with Sandra Berty about her latest work on violence against mothers—an often overlooked but critical dimension of gender-based violence.
Sandra shares insights from her recent submission to the UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls, explaining why violence against mothers must be recognized as a distinct legal category. She unpacks how conflict disproportionately impacts mothers, from forced caregiving roles to the long-term consequences of forced pregnancy.
The conversation also explores how legal frameworks evolve, why naming specific harms matters for justice and reparations, and what developments in international law—especially around sexual and reproductive rights—are shaping the future of accountability.
🔑 Key Topics
What counts as violence against mothers
Why legal definitions shape justice and reparations
The concept of forced motherhood as continuous harm
Gaps in current international legal frameworks
The role of UN submissions and advocacy
The significance of the Ongwen case at the ICC
Emerging developments in sexual and reproductive health rights in international law
💡 Key Takeaways
Violence against mothers is not fully captured under existing gender-based violence frameworks.
Recognizing maternal-specific harm leads to more effective accountability and reparations.
Forced pregnancy has lifelong physical, psychological, and economic consequences.
Legal progress—especially in international criminal law—is opening new pathways for justice.
There is growing momentum toward broader recognition of reproductive autonomy in conflict settings.
👤 Guest
Sandra Berty – Legal professional working on gender-based violence and international justice, with a focus on conflict-related harms and reproductive rights.
🎙️ Host
Dr. Miranda Melcher – Senior Legal Fellow at Just Access
🔍 Further Reading & Listening
UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls
ICC Ongwen case (forced pregnancy and reproductive autonomy)
Just Access Podcast – Part 1 with Sandra Bert
📣 Get Involved
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🌍 About the Podcast
The Just Access Podcast explores how to make human rights meaningful and accessible for everyone. We believe: Everyone can be a Human Rights Defender.
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