Statement of Albania at the May 15 Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict
implementation
Over the past decade, the Security Council has amply identified the scourge of sexual violence in conflict as a devastating tactic of war and terrorism and has recognized it as an issue that affects international peace and security. Today we have a better understanding of the scope and roots of the problem than ever before. In terms of international legal and normative instruments, we have the tools required to take significant action, including seven Security Council resolutions.
In September 2013, 144 countries, including Albania, co-signed the historic Declaration of Commitment to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, thus marking an unprecedented level of momentum and political will.
Yet the shocking and unacceptable reality is that despite our collective efforts and despite international awareness and outrage, conflict-related sexual violence continues unabated and largely unpunished. The real challenge facing us is how to convert our political will into action on the ground; how to implement our objectives in real conflicts, thus effecting change in the lives of millions of vulnerable children, men and women. The challenges to effectively combating this crime are multiple: lack of accountability for the perpetrators, weak Government response, insufficient reporting of the facts, poor monitoring and inadequate support services for the victims, who also have to face the shame, the stigma and the risk of retaliation.
Justice
Every Government has a responsibility to adopt protective measures, develop investigation mechanisms and put in place policies that protect its people from sexual violence, whether perpetrated by the Government’s own forces or by terrorists, in times of conflict or peace. When States fail to comply, the International Criminal Court, whose jurisdiction is universal, can and must fulfil its role in ensuring accountability. In addition, the lack of adequate national capacity and expertise necessary to prevent, investigate and prosecute perpetrators remains among the main impediments in combating sexual violence. It is critical that the United Nations increase its efforts to strengthen national capacities. In this context, I would like to join other colleagues and express Albania’s support for the excellent work of the Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict, as well as the partnership between Justice Rapid Response and UN-Women for their endeavours to end impunity for perpetrators.