Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict

On December 16th-17th, the Security Council held an open debate on "Sexual Violence in Conflict." As part of our Security Council Monitor initiative, PeaceWomen has extracted and organized the women, peace and security content of the most recent debate. The statements are available online, organized by Theme and by Country/Region.

43 speakers addressed the Council on this important occasion, including Margot Wallström, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict (SRSG). Noting that sexual violence during armed conflict is often pervasive and used as a weapon of war, the Council began the debate with the unanimous adoption of a new resolution, Resolution 1960 (2010). This new resolution creates institutional tools to combat impunity and outlines specific steps needed for both the prevention of and protection from sexual violence in conflict.