Statement by Australia

Australia is appalled by the continuing use of violence against women and girls, including sexual violence in conflict and the targeting of women and girls by extremist groups. The Secretary-General’s report (S/2016/822) is clear that, despite progress made on the women and peace and security agenda, there remain many gaps that require immediate action.

I cannot conclude without again voicing our deep concern about sexual exploitation and abuse by peacekeepers. We welcome initiatives aimed at prevention, survivor assistance and accountability, and stress again that there is no excuse for these actions, nor excuse for inaction in addressing sexual exploitation and abuse. We know that to sustain peace we must include women; not just in our words, but in our actions. And we must accelerate and strengthen practical efforts to place women front and centre in the peace and security agenda.