GMB viewers react to Richard Madeley’s question that rape is a weapon of war

Richard Madeley has been criticized for questioning why rape is considered a weapon of war.

In the April 4 issue Good morning BritainMadeley discussed the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine amid reports of sexual violence at the hands of Russian soldiers.

Speaking to Gast Chip Chapman, a former senior adviser to US Central Command, Madeley said: “Chip, we said something that was widely reported this morning about rape being used as a weapon of war. How exactly is rape a weapon of war?”

The Geneva Convention expressly states: “Women are to be protected in particular from attacks on their honor, in particular from rape, forced prostitution and any form of indecent assault.”

A day earlier, the British Ambassador to Ukraine wrote on Twitter: “Rape is a weapon of war. Although we do not yet know the full extent of its use in Ukraine, it is already clear that it was part of the (Russian) arsenal. Women were raped in front of their children, girls in front of their families, as a willful act of submission. Rape is a war crime.”

Viewers of the breakfast show were critical of Madeley’s questioning and called out the presenter on social media.

One viewer responded by saying: “How is Richard Madeley still busy?”

Another also said: “So Richard Madeley asked how can rape be considered a weapon of war? This is a national broadcast journalist. And then people are surprised why gender-based violence is not taken seriously?”

A viewer urged ITV to replace the veteran presenter: “Please get rid of him.”

He was also slammed by another GMB fan, who wrote on social media: “I’ve never seen a moderator ask such stupid questions.”

In recent days, various human rights groups have collected testimonies from people in Ukraine alleging that Russian soldiers raped and sexually assaulted civilians. There were also reports of mass executions and torture.

Both the Prosecutor General of Ukraine and the International Criminal Court have announced that they will launch investigations into the reports of sexual violence.

US President Joe Biden has also called on Russian leader Vladimir Putin to be tried for war crimes.

The Independent has reached out to Richard Madeley representatives for comment.

If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you can contact your nearest Rape Crisis organization for specialized, independent and confidential support. Visit their website for more information here.