"The first is the need to address sexual violence in peace and mediation processes. If women do not have a say in peace processes and sexual violence is not addressed in the agreements aimed at ending a conflict, gender-based discrimination and violence will remain embedded in society."

"That goal can be achieved by various means: adopting sanctions or targeted measures, referring matters to the International Criminal Court when necessary and naming and shaming perpetrators at every opportunity. We therefore welcome the Council's decision to encourage the Secretary-General to list in his reports the parties who have engaged in patterns of sexual violence in situations of armed conflict.

"Let me start by expressing our deep appreciation for resolution 1960 (2010), which has been adopted today and which Italy was proud to have co-sponsored. By requesting the establishment of monitoring and reporting arrangements for conflict-related sexual violence, the Security Council has taken an important step forward. Timely and accurate information will enhance the Council's ability to track and deter this heinous crime.

"In 2008, Italy, in its capacity as a member of the Security Council, was one of the strongest advocates of resolution 1820 (2008), on sexual violence in conflict. We also supported the appointment of a Special Representative of the Secretary-General. At the national level, we are finalizing a plan of action to implement resolution 1325 (2000), on women and peace and security.

"Conflict-related sexual violence is a threat to security and an impediment to peacebuilding in many parts of the world, not only in the crisis areas on the Council's agenda. In today's conflicts, sexual violence is not just collateral damage but an actual front-line strategy. There are two areas that we deem particularly important."

"In conclusion, Italy remains fully committed to implementing the resolutions of the Security Council in the area of women and peace and security, including the important resolution adopted today. "

"I wish to congratulate you, Madame President, on organizing this open debate of the Security Council, as well as to commend your commitment to an issue of the utmost importance to the international community.

Acts of sexual violence are horrific crimes against individuals. Women, girls and boys who are raped are not only heartlessly robbed of their basic dignity during the time of the crime, but also bear the scars of those appalling acts long after hostilities have ceased. No amount of compensation can heal those wounds.

Together, we must make clear that the international community has zero tolerance for the perpetrators of sexual violence in armed conflict and will bring them to justice wherever they carry out their appalling and destructive crimes.

The Secretary-General's report provides a number of important recommendations for improving the international community's efforts on this issue. There is a growing consensus about the need for timely, objective and accurate monitoring and reporting arrangements for incidents of sexual violence to ensure a coherent and coordinated approach to addressing violations and enforcing accountability.