Statement of Venezuela at the May 15 Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict
IMP
We would therefore like to acknowledge the important work being done by the Expert Team on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict in support of the national authorities of countries aimed at building institutional and technical capacity to address this issue. We hope that such an important group will not be subject to budget cuts.
SSR
If the ban on providing arms and financial support to extremist and terrorist groups were fully respected under international law, there would be a decrease in both the operational capacity of non-State actors and terrorists and in the incidences of sexual violence in situations of armed conflict. We firmly believe that accountability is also key to preventing such crimes. We cannot give way to impunity in crimes of this kind. Venezuela advocates effective accountability for all forms of sexual violence and the use of exemplary sanctions on all instigators and perpetrators of such crimes. On another note, we believe that building capacity in national institutions related to justice, health and social welfare systems in countries in situations of armed conflict and post-conflict plays a fundamental role. It is therefore necessary to pool our efforts so that, while fully respecting the sovereignty of the States concerned, such capacity can be developed and strengthened to allow for adequate and timely treatement and accountability, as well as the rehabilitation of victims and children who are products of that violence. We call for guarantees and respect for the right to an identity, which includes, among others, the right to a nationality, which is a fundamental right of every human being and is also key to being able to enjoy other fundamental rights.
PK
Venezuela also reiterates its support for the Organization’s zero-tolerance policy and demands accountability for all crimes of violence and sexual abuse committed by any foreign force and by military, police or civilian personnel deployed in peacekeeping operations and special political missions, as well as by staff of the Organization not deployed in such operations. In that regard, the United Nations is still expected to respond to the victims of such crimes.
PP
The theme of sexual violence must be addressed within the context of peace processes and ceasefires, as well as in all demobilization and reintegration processes in which the United Nations participates. Mediators and special envoys involved in such processes must have the requisite training in order to respond appropriately to the issue as it emerges in various specific contexts. In addition, efforts must be pursued to improve the preparedness of all field staff and to increase the number of gender experts and women’s protection advisers in the various missions.