"We note with concern the consequences of gender-based violence related to HIV and AIDS, especially in conflict situations, as expounded by the Secretary-General and Mr. Sidibé. Nigeria joins the international community in ensuring that women and girls in conflict situations are adequately protected.

" A better understanding of that relationship is crucial for the development of effective and efficient strategies to reduce the risk of infection in conflict and post-conflict settings. Many factors in those settings may increase a population's vulnerability to HIV.

In this context I would like to refer to the abhorrent and intolerable practice of sexual violence in situations of armed conflict, which could lead to the spread of HIV and AIDS.

"We strongly support the orientation of the operational and peacekeeping activities of the United Nations towards recognizing the plight of women and children in conflict areas and proactively work towards preventing violence against them."

"UNAIDS estimates that HIV/AIDS prevalence is three to four times higher among armed forces and armed groups than among the general population. As we know, women and children are often the main victims of conflict. Rape, which is all too often used as a weapon of war, also adds to the spread of HIV among civilians. HIV adds to the stigma and discrimination these victims of sexual violence oftentimes face."

"In the post-conflict transitional phase the transmission of HIV constitutes a particular danger. There is high population mobility after conflict, when displaced persons find refuge in camps, refugees return home and combatants are demobilized. Infected persons pose a high risk of contagion to their extended families and communities."

"In many conflicts, children are recruited and misused as soldiers, sexually exploited and abused. Under these conditions they are especially vulnerable to infection and therefore not only traumatized, but often also stigmatized for life. Germany is convinced that children deserve special protection in armed conflict and, if needed, must be provided with special HIV-related health care.

"With respect to sexual violence, I stress the importance of continuing to implement resolutions 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009) and 1960 (2010), given that the need to counter such violence, particularly towards women and children, is an important aspect of the processes involved in resolving conflicts and building peace. Such action allows their full involvement in these processes.

"On the ground, we must raise awareness of the parties to conflict regarding conduct towards civilian populations in armed conflicts that may exacerbate the spread of HIV/AIDS. It is also important to ensure the operationality of the HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment component in security sector reform activities and in disarmament, demobilization and reintegration mechanisms at the post-conflict stage.

"It will be recalled that on 17 July 2000, the Security Council, at the initiative of the United States of America, adopted resolution 1308 (2000). Gabon, which had just ended a term on the Council, had supported its preparation. Resolution 1308 (2000) underscored the threat posed by the disease to the staff of peacekeeping and peacebuilding missions.