Written statement by the Commissioner for Gender Equality, Ms Josie Christodoulou, on the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, we reaffirm our collective duty to confront one of the most brutal and systematic forms of gender-based violence that destroys lives and the prospect of peace.

The issue remains painfully relevant. In many countries around the world, including our own wider region, sexual violence continues to be used as a weapon and shield of war, with devastating consequences for human dignity.

Cyprus has its own painful experience. The Turkish invasion of 1974 left behind testimonies of rape and sexual abuse, crimes that remain unpunished to this day.

Sexual violence in armed conflict is not just a war crime. It is a brutal expression of gender inequality and power relations. Impunity of perpetrators sustains this dark phenomenon and prevents peace with substantive equality.

Our common, global goal should be clear: to eliminate sexual violence in conflict, to effectively support victims and to ensure effective accountability and punishment of perpetrators.

Cyprus, through a number of actions, including the National Action Plan for the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 “Women, Peace and Security”, will continue to strengthen the prevention of gender-based violence in conflict situations and the protection of human rights.

The elimination of sexual violence in armed conflict is non-negotiable. It is a prerequisite for peace and substantive equality.

(AA/AS/LY)

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