Justice

The critical challenge for the international community now is to convert political will into practical action and drive real change on the ground. The effectiveness of our collective action will depend on an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive approach. The top priority should be to combat impunity for these crimes. We must redirect the stigma and the consequences of sexual violence from the survivors to the perpetrators of such acts. As prosecution is critical to prevention, emphasis should in particular be placed on strengthening and enhancing the capacity of national institutions and criminal justice systems in countries facing armed conflict.

Secondly, attention must also be placed on providing support to the victims of sexual violence. Justice means not only punishment for the perpetrators but also redress for the survivors. Survivors need not only financial compensation but also access to health care, social services and legal support. They must also be given assistance to reintegrate into society.