Having had the privilege to chair the fifty-fourth session of the Commission ...

Having had the privilege to chair the fifty-fourth session of the Commission on the Status of Women earlier this year, I would like to emphasize that special attention needs to be paid to children who are victims of rape and other forms of sexual violence, especially girls, who are usually the largest group of victims in armed conflict. In addition to the physical damage, sexual violence often leaves lasting harm and stigma. By recalling the relevant resolutions of the General Assembly and the Security Council, as well as relevant provisions contained in instruments of international law, the Commission on the Status of Women hasexpressed grave concern about the continuation of armed conflicts in many regions of the world and about the human suffering and humanitarian emergencies they have caused.