14 for acquiring asylum, it is a disgrace that so few have been accorded such status. Not only does it seem that the South African authorities have scant regard for the application of the Refugee Act, but also that they seem oblivious to the enormous literature pointing out the need for special treatment of women refugees. Perhaps it is relevant to point out to the South African authorities the challenge that faces women survivors of torture and sexual violence. As Human Rights Watch has put it: One of the greatest challenges is to prevent sexual violence against women in the first instance. This can be achieved by making concerted efforts in at least three arenas. First, there must be heightened respect for women‘s human rights in all aspects of their lives. Failure to address sex discrimination as a significant underlying cause of sexual violence will ensure that present and future generations of women continue to be at risk for sexual violence. Second, there must be significantly improved compliance with the provisions of IHL during armed conflicts. Key methods include regular training and education of soldiers and other combatants regarding international legal protections for civilians, specifically prohibitions against rape and other forms of gender-based violence. Finally, there must be vigorous condemnation, investigation, and prosecution of gender-specific crimes against women in times of peace as well as war.25 25 See Human Rights Watch (2004), World Report 2004: Human Rights and Armed Conflict, NEW YORK: HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH.