First, the fundamental causes of sexual violence in armed conflict should be ...

First, the fundamental causes of sexual violence in armed conflict should be tackled at their root. A preventive mechanism that addresses the root causes of armed conflict should be implemented. ASEAN's Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, which aims to promote perpetual peace, everlasting amity and cooperation among its people, is a regional framework that we have put in place to that end. Such root causes should be addressed, inter alia, by promoting the rule of law, good governance, democracy, poverty eradication, sustainable development and respect for and the protection of human rights, as well as by providing multisectoral assistance and services for the specific needs of women and girls.