At the outset, I would like to thank you, Mr. President, for convening this important meeting during your presidency of the Security Council this month. I also welcome the report of the Secretary-General on conflict-related sexual violence, which informs our discussion today (S/2012/33), and the insightful briefing of Ms. Wallström, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

Afghanistan adopted a law on the elimination of violence against women, which has provided the Government with stronger judicial means through which we can combat sexual violence more effectively. That is real progress towards breaking the silence with regard to violence and sexual violence.

The second element is the interconnectedness of sexual violence and other atrocities. While sexual violence is embedded within the definition of war crimes and crimes against humanity, the international community should take a holistic approach to those atrocities, as they cannot be separated from one another. Furthermore, every atrocity is spawned from the all-encompassing destruction of society caused by war.

Finally, let me end by noting two recent initiatives that the United States has undertaken to make good on its commitment to address many of the issues being discussed here today.

As we approach justice and the rule of law in conflict and post-conflict situations, we must place special emphasis on the protection of women and children, as well as of other vulnerable groups.

As we approach justice and the rule of law in conflict and post-conflict situations, we must place special emphasis on the protection of women and children, as well as of other vulnerable groups. That includes persons targeted for violence based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

The United Kingdom is committed to spending 30 per cent of its growing development assistance in countries affected by conflict, which among other things will help 12 million women to access justice through the courts, the police and legal assistance.

The United Nations work to promote the rule of law extends to more than 150 countries. Our efforts to combat transnational crime, build confidence and capacity in State institutions, and battle discrimination against women are all part of this effort. [...] Our goal is to quickly demonstrate the value of the rule of law. That builds public confidence in political settlements.

Moreover, legal systems have to be capable of addressing the special situation and needs of women and children, particularly in societies traumatized by conflict, including through special legislation and appropriate programmes of assistance and by abolishing laws and practices that discriminate against women and pose obstacles to their full and equal participation.

My fourth point concerns the situation of those most vulnerable to the impact of conflict and postconflict situations. An effective response has to address the particular needs of those people, such as women and children, who are not only more vulnerable, but also so often targeted and used as soldiers or as instruments of war, as is the case with sexual and gender-based violence. Rule-of-law tools are also fundamental in that regard.