The mandate related to sexual violence in situations of armed conflict is one...

of Field Support (DFS) remain deeply concerned that, despite universal and repeated condemnation, sexual violence continues to be used as a tactic of war, in particular against women and children.

We greatly appreciate the political advocacy and leadership of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Ms. Wallström, in heading the United Nations Action against Sexual Violence in Conflict.

During the past year, collaboration between my Department, Special Representative Wallström, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and

United Nations Action has been strengthened. Thanks to these partnerships, we are continuing to produce concrete results. Since last year's debate, we have worked with the Office of Ms. Wallström and the Office of the United

Nations High Commissioner of Human Rights to develop terms of reference for women's protection advisers. A tripartite approach has been adopted in the context of the advisers by placing them in gender and human rights organizations and in the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the relevant peacekeeping operations to facilitate cooperation. This approach maximizes existing capacities in the field and avoids fragmentation and

duplication of responsibilities.