UK Condemns Surge in Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Globally: Key Statement at UN Security Council

Thank you, Madam President. I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Democratic Republic of Congo for facilitating this crucial discussion, and to you personally for your leadership on this significant agenda.

I would also like to extend my appreciation to the briefers. Ms Jocelyn, your detailed briefing served as a powerful reminder of the harrowing impact that ongoing gang violence has on women and girls in Haiti.

Additionally, I would like to acknowledge Special Representative Patten. The United Nations plays an essential role in documenting and verifying these heinous crimes, which is vital for providing the international community with the evidence necessary to pursue accountability.

Addressing the Global Crisis of Sexual Violence

The United Kingdom is deeply troubled by the increasing instances of conflict-related sexual violence reported globally, as highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report. This situation is not a foregone conclusion; it is preventable and subject to prosecution. However, far too often, it is allowed to occur with impunity.

When perpetrators face no repercussions, survivors are denied justice, and these crimes tend to recur. In Sudan, for instance, a war is being waged on the bodies of women, which is a matter of grave concern due to the widespread and systematic use of sexual violence in the region.

We lend our full support to the Secretary-General’s calls for accountability and for unimpeded access to humanitarian aid. The international community has failed the people of El-Fasher, and we must not permit a similar fate to befall those in El-Obeid.

The UK is committed to assisting survivors, which includes a comprehensive support package of over $26 million aimed at facilitating access to medical and psychological assistance.

Condemnation of Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones

We unequivocally condemn the sexual violence inflicted by Russian forces against civilians and prisoners of war in Ukraine, as documented in the Secretary-General’s report. These crimes have been consistently recorded over the years and reveal a clear and persistent pattern of behaviour. Those responsible must be brought to justice.

The UK will continue to support Ukrainian investigators and prosecutors in their pursuit of justice, adhering to international standards and survivor-centred approaches.

Furthermore, we condemn all instances of conflict-related sexual violence reported in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. We are particularly appalled by the sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas on 7 October and against hostages, and we demand accountability for these crimes.

We are also gravely concerned about the documented sexual violence carried out by Israeli forces against Palestinian detainees, as mentioned in the Secretary-General’s report. We urge Israel to conduct thorough investigations into such violence and to hold perpetrators accountable, ensuring that detainees are treated according to international norms and standards.

The Need for Survivor-Centric Justice

Madam President, I would like to emphasise the critical importance of accountability and support for survivors. First and foremost, survivors must have a genuine voice in the justice processes that are designed to aid them. Accountability is achievable when there is political will and sustained international backing.

Secondly, it is imperative that survivors, including children affected by or born from conflict-related sexual violence, receive the protection and support necessary to rebuild their lives. This approach is essential to breaking the cycle of harm that can be passed down through generations.

Addressing sexual violence has been a priority for the UK since the inception of the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative over a decade ago. Through this initiative and various other programmes, the UK has supported more than 55,000 survivors in the past year alone. As my Foreign Secretary has stated, conflict-related sexual violence must be confronted with renewed urgency and collective resolve.

Call to Action for the International Community

The challenge for this Council is to ensure that these crimes are prevented, investigated, and prosecuted. We must work together to create a world where survivors are supported, and perpetrators are held accountable. Only through collective action can we hope to eradicate the scourge of sexual violence in conflict.