The scourge of conflict-related sexual violence continues to mar the world's most troubled regions, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The UK, a global leader in this fight, has sounded a stark warning at the UN Security Council: such atrocities are not inevitable, but rather the product of impunity and neglect. Ambassador Kate Foster, the UK's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, delivered a powerful indictment of those responsible, highlighting the need for accountability and justice.
Ambassador Foster zeroed in on Sudan, where the "systematic use of sexual violence" has become an entrenched feature of the conflict. The UK is backing calls for action to prevent such horrors being repeated, and is urging unhindered humanitarian access to support the most vulnerable. The diplomat also condemned the ongoing abuse of Ukrainian civilians by Russian forces, citing a "clear and persistent pattern" of behaviour documented over several years.
The situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories was also addressed, with Ambassador Foster expressing horror at reports of sexual violence committed by Hamas on 7 October. Grave concerns were raised regarding documented incidents of Israeli forces committing sexual violence against Palestinian detainees, with calls for thorough investigations and accountability.
To combat these atrocities, the UK has pledged a substantial £20.5 million package to support survivors with medical and psycho-social care. This commitment underscores a decade-long effort by the UK to tackle conflict-related sexual violence, which has directly assisted over 55,000 survivors in the last year alone.
The UK government maintains that accountability is key, stressing the need for sustained international backing to ensure perpetrators face consequences. Foreign Secretary David Cameron has previously highlighted the urgent need for collective resolve to confront these crimes and break the cycle of harm.