As we mark one year since the establishment of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, it is important to recall that sexual and gender-based violence – in conflict as well as in peace – is a wide-spread and horrific crime. It perpetuates conflict, undermines the security, livelihood, and health of nations by suppressing survivors’ participation in civic, political, social, and economic life.
Collectively, there are three key ways the international community can address its shared goal of eliminating sexual violence in conflict: first, by considering the full range of tools for countering conflict-related sexual violence inflicted by state and non-state armed groups; second, by documenting violations or abuses against members of marginalized groups of victims, including women and girls, men and boys, ethnic and religious minorities, and LGBTI individuals; and third, by improving accountability and bringing those responsible to justice.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
As delivered by Ambassador Daniel B. Baer to the Permanent Council, Vienna | June 23, 2016
