UN announces new approach to tackle sexual abuse

UN Secretary-General António Guterres says the UN will not be associated with the vile and vicious crimes of rape, sexual violence, exploitation and abuse in any way.


Guterres stated this in the Secretary-General’s report, ‘Special Measures for Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse: A new approach’, outlined a victim-centred strategy that is rooted in transparency, accountability
and ensuring justice.
The Secretary-General’s report particularly
focused on preventing and responding to such abuses committed by those serving under the UN flag, like the peacekeeping personnel.
“Such acts of cruelty should never take place. Certainly no person serving with the United Nations in any capacity should be associated with such vile and vicious crimes.
“Let us declare in one voice: We will not
tolerate anyone committing or condoning
sexual exploitation and abuse. We will not let anyone cover up these crimes with the UN flag,” he said.
Guterres said that promoting gender equality throughout the UN system, including its missions and peacekeeping forces, would help
advance parity and at the same time decrease incidents of abuse.
“Let us do so in the name of all who look to
the UN for life-saving protection and support – and on behalf of the tens of thousands of UN
personnel around the world who deliver that assistance with courage and commitment to the highest ideals,” he stressed.
He noted that exploitation is also deeply
rooted in gender inequality and discrimination.
The report focused is based on four tracks,
including the rights and dignity of victims;and
ending impunity for those guilty of crimes and abuses.
Others are drawing on the wisdom and
guidance of all those who have been affected, civil society, local communities and others to strengthen and improve UN’s efforts; and to raise awareness and share best practices to end the vicious scourge.
The report also emphasised the need to engage with UN member states and called for a high-level meeting on sexual exploitation and abuses in 2017 on the margins of the general debate of the 72nd session of the General Assembly.
The report further noted that the UN chief
would seek member states’ support to
establish a system-wide consolidated
confidential repository of case information to be placed under the supervision of the Special Coordinator on Improving UN Response to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse.