We know that conflict situations are usually characterized by the breakdown o...

We know that conflict situations are usually characterized by the breakdown of law and order. The impunity that can prevail in such situations has a particularly devastating impact on the victims of sexual violence. Accountability for crimes of sexual violence is critical to changing behaviours. The increased engagement of the Council with the parties listed in the Secretary-General's report (S/2012/33) is an important element in developing such cultures of accountability, as is the consideration by sanctions committees of targeted and graduated measures against persistent perpetrators of violence.