Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Sérgio França Danese, on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) - July 14th, 2023

Mister President,

I thank the United Kingdom for organizing today's debate and the briefers for their comprehensive presentations.

Brazil seizes this opportunity to commend Special Representative Pramila Patten and her Office for their crucial work and commitment to combating sexual violence in conflict.

I also thank civil society briefers for their testimonials. Civil society plays a key role in working with victims of conflict-related sexual violence, giving them ways to move forward, after being target of such an abhorrent crime.

I salute the meaningful presence here today of so many representatives of countries that are also deeply concerned about and engaged in this issue.

Mister President,

Sexual violence adds an extra layer of suffering to the already dreadful reality of war. It inflicts long-lasting psychological trauma on victims, destroying social fabric and jeopardizing efforts towards peace and development.

Over fifteen years since the unanimous adoption of resolution 1820 (2008), the UN has accomplished some advances in addressing this issue. For instance, the establishment of the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict and the launch of the Framework for the Prevention of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence in September 2022.

The commission of sexual violence in conflict is directly related to impunity, which, unfortunately, remains usual in most conflicts. Holding offenders accountable should be the bare minimal response provided by states. Delivering justice to victims sends a clear message of zero tolerance with such crimes and helps to prevent their recurrence.

Yet, the Secretary-General report sheds light on the need to invest financial as well as human resources to support embattled states in providing justice. The process which culminated with the inauguration of the ad hoc tribunal in Guinea shows the need of such investment.

Another key measure to ensure accountability and to provide lasting peace is including references to the situation of those who have been subjected to sexual violence during conflict and its aftermath in peace agreements and post-conflict arrangements.

As shown in the Framework for the Prevention of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, gender-based violence drivers, such as patriarchal norms and rules, gender inequality, as well as gender-discriminatory laws and rules, to name a few, play a key role in inciting the commission of these crimes. Thus, states should also address these drivers in their efforts against Conflict-Related Sexual Violations. For instance, by promoting full, equal and meaningful participation of women in decision-making processes and peace talks.

I thank you.