Security Council Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict, April 2018: Kazakhstan (Extract 2)

Sexual violence affects every aspect of a survivor’s life. The Secretary-General’s report underscores the fact that conflict-related sexual violence leads to the stigmatization of victims and the devastation of physical and economic security, especially of displaced, minority and rural women. Therefore, as Ms. Sultana so eloquently argued, victims should receive full, competent and speedy attention, with increased access to health care, psychosocial support, legal assistance and socioeconomic reintegration, along with improved camp management. We must support the safe, voluntary and sustainable return of displaced populations and refugees. Cooperation with religious leaders, civil society and local communities is most important in order to change extremist narratives, shift the stigma of sexual violence from the victims to the perpetrators, promote education and create awareness around the empowerment of women. The entire community often needs healing, and therefore this must be given full attention in the context of truth and reconciliation commissions and transitional justice