Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

The Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) theme focuses on the incidence and prevalence of violence against women in conflict and post-conflict settings. Polarisation of gender roles, proliferation of weapons, militarisation, and the breakdown of law influence SGBV.

The risk of SGBV is heightened during conflict by aggravating factors, including the polarization of gender roles, the proliferation of arms, the militarization of society, and the breakdown of law and order. The subsequent long-term and complex impacts of SGBV continue to affect individuals and communities after conflict ends.

SGBV is addressed in all five resolutions on Women, Peace and Security. In SCR 1888, the Security Council expresses its intention to ensure peacekeeping mandate resolutions contain provisions on the prevention of, and response to, sexual violence, with corresponding reporting requirements to the Council (OP11). The resolutions deal with protecting women from violence (1820,OP3, 8-10; 1888,OP3,12); strengthening local and national institutions to assist victims of sexual violence (1820,OP13; 1888,OP13); and including strategies to address sexual violence in post-conflict peacebuilding processes (1820,OP11). SCR 1820 also calls for the participation of women in the development of mechanisms intended to protect women from violence (OP10).

Lastly, SCR 1960 creates institutional tools and teeth to combat impunity and outlines specific steps needed for both the prevention of and protection from conflict-related sexual violence. The new “naming and shaming,” listing mechanism mandated in the Resolution is a step forward in bringing justice for victims and a recognition that sexual violence is a serious violation of human rights and international law.

Addressing SGBV is an integral aspect of the overall Women, Peace and Security agenda. SGBV affects the health and safety of women, and also has significant impact on economic and social stability. The Security Council recognises that sexual violence can threaten international peace and security, and that it is frequently used as a tactic of war to dominate, humiliate, terrorise, and displace.

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Statement of AUSTRIA at UNGA73

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Statement of SAN MARINO at UNGA73

“This year’s theme is inevitably linked to the UN reform process. This process is of fundamental importance for the future world balance, for guaranteeing international peace and security and must remain at the centre of all our efforts.”

Statement of SAN MARINO at UNGA73

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Statement of SYRIAN ARAB REPUBLIC at UNGA73

“These governments formed an illegitimate international coalition, led by the United States. The coalition destroyed the Syrian city of Raqqa completely; it destroyed infrastructure and public services in the areas it targeted; it committed massacres against civilians, including children and women, which amount to war crimes under international law.”

Statement of SYRIAN ARAB REPUBLIC at UNGA73

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Statement of PAPUA NEW GUINEA at UNGA73

“Many issues are on the table either formally or in informal meetings on the sidelines… And— very importantly, gender equality.”

Statement of PAPUA NEW GUINEA at UNGA73

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Statement of DENMARK at UNGA73

“Denmark is running for a seat on the Human Rights Council for the term 2019 to 2021. If elected, we will promote the rights and equal opportunities of women; continue our longstanding fight against torture; protect the rights of indigenous peoples; and encourage freedom of religion or belief. This has to be done without discrimination on any grounds, including sexual orientation and gender identity.”

Statement of DENMARK at UNGA73

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Statement of NEPAL at UNGA73

“Through dialogue and deliberations, through mutual respect and accommodation, we steered a uniquely successful home-grown, nationally led and owned peace process.”

“With this commitment we must ensure that the voice of the people struggling for their rights, liberty, freedom and justice in various parts of the world, including Syria, Yemen, Palestine, and many other places must be heard and addressed.”

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