In Syria, sexual violence has been a constant since the beginning of the conf...

In Syria, sexual violence has been a constant since the beginning of the conflict. The independent international commission of inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic gathered information showing that Government forces and affiliated militias have committed sexual violence, including rape, in detention centres and prisons across the country, often during interrogations conducted by intelligence services. We also know that certain armed groups in Syria have also committed such violence. All of these conflicts and the other situations addressed in the annual report of the Secretary-General lead us to the conclusion that the Security Council must remain mobilized in the face of these despicable practices that deliberately target civilian populations and destroy the social fabric of entire communities. Last year's open debate focused on the fight against impunity. That topic remains relevant. It is at the heart of our efforts to end sexual violence. Condemning the perpetrators of sexual violence does not mean only punishing the guilty parties but also preventing future violence, righting wrongs and doing justice by victims and survivors. The international community must step up its efforts to support national authorities to assume their responsibility in the fight against impunity.