Code of Ethics
THE CIVIL COMMISSION on October 7th Crimes Against Women and Children was founded in the wake of Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. This horrific assault resulted in more than 1,200 deaths and the kidnapping of more than 250 individuals, including women, children, infants, men, the elderly, and disabled people. The heinous acts of murder, torture, rape, gender-based violence and abduction spurred the immediate formation of the Civil Commission, under the auspices of the Dvora Institute for Gender and Sustainability Studies, an independent non-profit organization. The Commission's goal is to advocate for the victims of the sexual and gender-based violence and atrocities of the October 7th attack, as well as for their loved ones and communities.
Under the leadership of human rights law and international law expert Dr. Cochav Elkayam-Levy, the 2024 Israel Prize laureate for her relentless advocacy against these atrocities, the Civil Commission's mission is to amplify their voices in the international arena and challenge the ensuing denial.
Achievements
Soon after the atrocities occurred the Civil Commission met with prominent leaders, including the White House senior staff on gender policy. These resulted in several historical statements of recognition and support for the victims of Oct. 7th. Dr. Elkayam-Levy was an honorary guest of the French Delegation to the UN at the 2024 Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), where she focused on raising awareness about the sexual atrocities that occurred on October 7th. She was also involved in Sheryl Sandberg's documentary "Screams Before Silence," which further highlights these critical issues.