Sexual violence in conflict represents one of the most serious forms of viola...

Sexual violence in conflict represents one of the most serious forms of violation of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. Such violations cause a lifetime of pain that cannot be healed. In that regard, Egypt stresses the importance of implementing policies of zero-tolerance for sexual violence, ensuring that all perpetrators be held accountable, whether they be the ones who committed, ordered or condoned such crimes, and that all perpetrators be pursued by any and all possible means. Despite the Security Council's unique ability to impose targeted sanctions on perpetrators as an important part of deterrence, Egypt emphasizes the importance of adopting preventive measures to address the spread of sexual violence in conflict as a priority. There is an urgent need to support the Member States concerned in preventing sexual violence, in ensuring zero tolerance for it and in prosecuting its perpetrators.