Statement by H.E. Ambassador SHINO Mitsuko, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Arria Formula Meeting on “Preventing and Responding to Conflict-Related Sexual Violence”
2023/10/18
(As delivered)
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I thank Albania, the United Kingdom and the United States for convening this important meeting on conflict-related sexual violence, especially thanking His Excellency Mr. Hasani, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, for your chairing of this meeting. I also thank Her Excellency Ms. Osmani, President of the Republic of Kosovo, Ms. Marnay-Baszanger and the civil society representatives for their comprehensive briefings and raising their brave voices; thank you.
Sexual violence in conflict is a serious crime that violates not only the physical body, but human dignity—human dignity, which unfortunately continues to be used as a tactic of war, torture, political repression, and terrorism. Japan is deeply concerned by the latest Secretary-General’s report on sexual violence in conflict which points out the alarming persistence of sexual violence and weakening of the rule of law in countries in conflict.
Mr. Chair,
Japan firmly believes that legislation, establishing robust judicial institutions, and holding perpetrators accountable is crucial in deterring CRSV, which is also emphasized in numerous Security Council resolutions.
Since 2014, Japan has continuously supported the Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict, operating under the office of the SRSG-SVC. Through this engagement, Japan has actively supported the strengthening of investigative and judicial systems through tackling CRSV in countries including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, Somalia, and Iraq. Japan maintains its unwavering trust and support for the Team’s mission and dedicated efforts, which was presented by Ms. Marnay-Baszanger earlier. Furthermore, Japan has consistently backed the operation of the International Criminal Court and stands as its largest financial contributor.
Mr. Chair,
Recognizing the practical needs of survivors of CRSV, who endure immense suffering, Japan places its utmost importance on providing timely and comprehensive assistance to survivor-centered global efforts. Currently, Japan provides medical, psycho-social, and livelihood support for victims of CRSV in Mali through UN Action Against Sexual Violence in Conflict. Furthermore, Japan actively contributes to other multilateral frameworks including the Trust Fund for Victims of the ICC and the Global Fund for Survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence.
The latter organization strives to improve survivors’ access to reparations by offering interim reparative measures in situations where states or other parties are unable or unwilling to meet their responsibilities. I invite other Member States and stakeholders to participate in survivor-centered efforts.
Mr. Chair,
I would like to emphasize that the aforementioned efforts constitute a key component of Japan's third and current National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, which was formulated in close consultation with CSOs and the broader public. Furthermore, this current Action Plan specifically acknowledges the importance of providing support to all survivors, encompassing individuals of all genders. We are committed to the implementation of the Action Plan in a transparent manner by ensuring periodic external evaluations and feedback from civil society.
In conclusion, Mr. Chair, Japan will continue to make its utmost efforts to eliminate CRSV together with all stakeholders.
I once again thank all the brave briefers and organizers.
Thank you.
I thank Albania, the United Kingdom and the United States for convening this important meeting on conflict-related sexual violence, especially thanking His Excellency Mr. Hasani, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, for your chairing of this meeting. I also thank Her Excellency Ms. Osmani, President of the Republic of Kosovo, Ms. Marnay-Baszanger and the civil society representatives for their comprehensive briefings and raising their brave voices; thank you.
Sexual violence in conflict is a serious crime that violates not only the physical body, but human dignity—human dignity, which unfortunately continues to be used as a tactic of war, torture, political repression, and terrorism. Japan is deeply concerned by the latest Secretary-General’s report on sexual violence in conflict which points out the alarming persistence of sexual violence and weakening of the rule of law in countries in conflict.
Mr. Chair,
Japan firmly believes that legislation, establishing robust judicial institutions, and holding perpetrators accountable is crucial in deterring CRSV, which is also emphasized in numerous Security Council resolutions.
Since 2014, Japan has continuously supported the Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict, operating under the office of the SRSG-SVC. Through this engagement, Japan has actively supported the strengthening of investigative and judicial systems through tackling CRSV in countries including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, Somalia, and Iraq. Japan maintains its unwavering trust and support for the Team’s mission and dedicated efforts, which was presented by Ms. Marnay-Baszanger earlier. Furthermore, Japan has consistently backed the operation of the International Criminal Court and stands as its largest financial contributor.
Mr. Chair,
Recognizing the practical needs of survivors of CRSV, who endure immense suffering, Japan places its utmost importance on providing timely and comprehensive assistance to survivor-centered global efforts. Currently, Japan provides medical, psycho-social, and livelihood support for victims of CRSV in Mali through UN Action Against Sexual Violence in Conflict. Furthermore, Japan actively contributes to other multilateral frameworks including the Trust Fund for Victims of the ICC and the Global Fund for Survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence.
The latter organization strives to improve survivors’ access to reparations by offering interim reparative measures in situations where states or other parties are unable or unwilling to meet their responsibilities. I invite other Member States and stakeholders to participate in survivor-centered efforts.
Mr. Chair,
I would like to emphasize that the aforementioned efforts constitute a key component of Japan's third and current National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, which was formulated in close consultation with CSOs and the broader public. Furthermore, this current Action Plan specifically acknowledges the importance of providing support to all survivors, encompassing individuals of all genders. We are committed to the implementation of the Action Plan in a transparent manner by ensuring periodic external evaluations and feedback from civil society.
In conclusion, Mr. Chair, Japan will continue to make its utmost efforts to eliminate CRSV together with all stakeholders.
I once again thank all the brave briefers and organizers.
Thank you.