The report of the Secretary-General (S/2012/33) illustrates in a most alarmin...

The report of the Secretary-General (S/2012/33) illustrates in a most alarming way how impunity linked to human rights abuses of the past, in particular acts of sexual violence perpetrated in armed conflict, is a major factor undermining early recovery and peace consolidation, and frequently allows sexual violence to persist. In that context, it is particularly disturbing, as the report indicates and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict also noted today, that in many countries the alleged perpetrators of sexual violence are not prosecuted for their acts, but are often promoted or appointed to senior Government positions in national institutions. The impunity of such high-ranking officers is unacceptable and prevents communities emerging from conflict to recover sustainably.

I echo the Secretary-General's call on the Security Council to employ all means at its disposal to fight conflict-related sexual violence, including the use of referrals to the International Criminal Court, and to increase pressure on the perpetrators of sexual violence through the adoption of targeted and graduated measures by relevant sanctions committees. The fight against impunity is also of major importance to the prevention of sexual violence.