On the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict
As delivered by Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Gregory Macris
to the Permanent Council, Vienna
June 20, 2019
Four years ago, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed June 19 as the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict to raise awareness of the need to end conflict-related sexual violence, to honor the victims and survivors of sexual violence around the world, and to pay tribute to all those who have courageously devoted their lives to – and lost their lives by – seeking the eradication of these crimes.
UN Security Council Resolution 2467 states that sexual violence in conflict exposes civilians, and particularly women and girls, to “a full range of threats and human rights violations and abuses.” The United States stands with the victims of these heinous crimes and calls on all states to ensure that populations are protected against sexual violence in conflict, that civilian and military leaders make clear that sexual violence is strictly prohibited at all times, and that perpetrators of these crimes are brought to justice.
I also note that on June 11, the White House released the U.S. Strategy on Women, Peace, and Security, which promotes women’s empowerment as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy. The strategy aims to promote women’s safety and leadership in conflict prevention, management, and resolution, and post conflict relief and recovery efforts. Through the strategy, the United States will strengthen our support for women as partners and leaders in fostering security and growing the global economy.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
###
