Early warning signs of conflict-related sexual violence are often received. B...

Early warning signs of conflict-related sexual violence are often received. But as the mass rapes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in July and August sadly demonstrated, our coordinated and comprehensive analysis of those signs must be strengthened in order to improve the prospects for preventing attacks on civilians. Sexual violence is not unique in that regard. We encourage all relevant parts of the United Nations system to collaborate in identifying a comprehensive matrix of early warning signs and recommended responses. As we know, the Special Advisers on the prevention of genocide and on the responsibility to protect are also undertaking relevant and important work in this field. A coordinated and comprehensive approach to early warning will enhance the response capacity of peacekeepers on the ground.