Lastly, while States bear the primary responsibility for preventing and addre...

Lastly, while States bear the primary responsibility for preventing and addressing conflict-related sexual violence, the United Nations system has a special role to play, as mandated by its Member States. ASEAN recognizes the constructive role of civil society, the media and other stakeholders, many of whom are working hard to protect the rights and interests of women under difficult situations, and encourages them to work closely with States and the United Nations system in those common endeavours.