U.S. Commitment to Eliminating Sexual Violence in Conflict Globally

Strategic Insights -

The United States remains committed to eradicating sexual violence in conflict globally, with a focus on preventing and holding perpetrators accountable. This commitment stems from President Trump's 2017 signing of the Women, Peace, and Security Act, which guides U.S. work both domestically and internationally. The U.S. appreciates the United Nations' efforts on this issue, particularly those of the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict. Sexual violence disproportionately affects women and girls, as well as men and boys, with many cases going unreported or undocumented.

Key Takeaways:

  • The U.S. has committed to eliminating sexual violence in conflict globally, recognizing its devastating impact on entire communities.
  • President Trump signed the Women, Peace, and Security Act in 2017, which codifies the objectives of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and guides U.S. work on this issue.
  • The U.S. appreciates the work of the UN, particularly the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, in ending impunity for conflict-related sexual violence crimes.
  • The U.S. is working with countries to build legal frameworks to address conflict-related sexual violence crimes, including those perpetrated by terrorist organizations like ISIS.
  • The U.S. is proud to be the penholders on this topic for the UN Security Council, having played a key role in launching the CRSV mandate through Security Council Resolution 1888.
  • The U.S. looks forward to continuing to support this important mandate and working with the international community to prevent and address conflict-related sexual violence.

Statistics:

  • According to the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, sexual violence affects entire communities, with disproportionate harm to women and girls, as well as men and boys.
  • For every reported case of sexual violence, countless others go undocumented.
  • The U.S. is committed to ensuring access to vital services for survivors of sexual violence around the globe.

Sources:

  • "News Release: Remarks at a UN Security Council Meeting on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence" (U.S. Mission to the United Nations)
  • UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000)
  • UN Security Council Resolution 1888 (2009)
  • Women, Peace, and Security Act (2017)