Participation

Sexual abuse and discrimination are directly linked to gender inequality, poverty, exclusion and marginalization. Sexual violence is a deliberate and intolerable violation of the victim’s human rights. When women and girls are preyed upon, abused and raped, the international community has a responsibility to speak out on their behalf and to act as their advocates and guardians.

Over the years the international community has come to a deeper understanding of the unique impact that armed conflict has on women and children. There is an agreement that the participation of women is essential to ensuring conflict resolution, inclusive reconciliation, peacebuilding and sustainable peace. In that regard, resolution 1325 (2000) and all subsequent resolutions provide the basis for a more focused and systemic response to the role of women in conflict and post-conflict situations. The Security Council has also adopted a number of resolutions dealing with sexual violence as a tactic of war and terrorism, including resolution 2106 (2013), which calls for those found to have committed acts of sexual violence to be held accountable to the fullest extent. Despite these laudable efforts, these atrocities continue unabated. Our discussions and debates, such as this one today, must result in continued meaningful action to protect the victims of such abuses.