Security Council Open Debate on Sexual Violence in Conflict, April 2018: Argentina (Extract 3)

Separately, peacekeeping operations need to be equipped with appropriate gender-responsive conflict analysis and expertise. We are deeply concerned that cutting, downgrading, and under-resourcing gender advisors and women protection advisors positions may cripple the ability of peace operations to fulfill these critical tasks. We must also ensure that UN peacekeepers themselves are not part of the problem and condemn cases of sexual exploitation and abuse in peacekeeping operations. We welcome recent initiatives by the Secretary-General,  including the conclusion of sexual exploitation and abuse Voluntary Compact with Member States, the establishment of a Circle of Leadership, and the appointment of a SEA Victims’ Rights Advocate. Still much more needs to be done to tackle this scourge, ensure accountability, and fundamentally reconfigure our collective approach to make it victim-centered.