Concern over gender-based violence in Syria

Syrian women who fled their homes start a fire next to their tents at a camp for displaced Syrians, in the village of Atmeh, Syria AP

The Bishop of Exeter has urged the Government to do everything it can to support victims of sexual and gender-based violence in the Syrian conflict.

The Right Reverend Michael Langrish said there was a need to ensure that such abuses are properly documented so that the perpetrators can be brought to justice in the future.

The bishop made the call during a debate in the House of Lords on Wednesday, in which he said the growing number of refugees reflected the "protracted brutality" of the ongoing conflict.

Responding to his call, Baroness Northover said that sexual violence was "widespread and systematic" in the conflict.

"We hear reports of sexual abuse and domestic violence, and also of young girls being forced into early marriage among the refugees. Therefore we are extremely concerned," she said.

The UK Government is currently providing clinical care and counselling for 12,000 Syrian refugees in Jordan who have experienced sexual violence.

"It has struck me that this is better documented than may have been the case in the past but we still have a long way to go in terms of recognising the significance of this," she added.

Bishop Langrish welcomed the Government's "generous and strategic" humanitarian provision.

News
Burnout and isolation are common problems for Church of England clergy - report
Burnout and isolation are common problems for Church of England clergy - report

Clergy described burnout, feelings of isolation, diminished morale, and ongoing financial strain.

Evangelical Alliance updates Christian course for South Asian seekers
Evangelical Alliance updates Christian course for South Asian seekers

The Evangelical Alliance (EA) has announced the launch of a new set of resources aimed at introducing the gospel to people of South Asian heritage.

Samaritan’s Purse plane hijacked; suspect in custody
Samaritan’s Purse plane hijacked; suspect in custody

A Samaritan's Purse plane carrying aid to South Sudan was hijacked earlier this week. A suspect has been detained, and no serious injuries are being reported.

Thousands attend launch of nationwide Christmas evangelistic campaign at Royal Albert Hall
Thousands attend launch of nationwide Christmas evangelistic campaign at Royal Albert Hall

A major evangelistic outreach for the Christmas season formally got underway this week at the Royal Albert Hall.