Afghanistan adopted a law on the elimination of violence against women, which...

Afghanistan adopted a law on the elimination of violence against women, which has provided the Government with stronger judicial means through which we can combat sexual violence more effectively. That is real progress towards breaking the silence with regard to violence and sexual violence. We are confident that, in the years to come, our efforts will yield more results and that women will be safer and more respected and will receive the justice that they deserve.

The President of Afghanistan also established a commission on the elimination of sexual abuse of children and women. The commission advises relevant organizations on how to fight against the sexual abuse of women and children and encourages relevant reporting to it.

Afghanistan acknowledges that the accomplishments that we have outlined are only the first steps towards achieving gender equality and the improvement of the position of women. The Afghan Government will therefore continue its effort to eliminate sexual violence and to advance women's rights and empowerment. In that regard, the Government of Afghanistan welcomes resolutions 1325 (2000), 1888 (2009) and 1889 (2009), which identify combating sexual violence as a matter of peace and security.