Security Council Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict, April 2018: European Union

Accountability and access to justice are a must. Victims and witnesses of sexual violence have to be ensured access to impartial and safe tribunals and to reparations, including as a form of transitional gender justice, and their safety must be sufficiently addressed during as well as after these legal processes. We emphasize the significant advancement in international justice made by the International Criminal Court, as well as non-permanent International Criminal Tribunals in combating conflict-related sexual violence. We underline the need for expedient and effective investigation and documentation of these crimes. Nevertheless, we bear in mind that the ICC jurisdiction is complementary to that of States and that the primary responsibility for bringing perpetrators to justice resides with the States. At national level, accountability and transitional justice mechanisms are also crucial to this end. Strengthening the capacity of the police and other rule of law actors within national institutions is critical to ensuring accountability for past crimes, as well as prevention and deterrence.

We continue to support UN action against conflict related sexual violence. We recognise that UN peacekeeping operations play a vital role in the protection of women, girls, men and boys as part of their mandated task of protecting civilians. We also stress the importance of training peacekeeping personnel on preventing sexual exploitation and abuse.