Guterres terms sexual violence in conflict as brutal crime

The United Nation's (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres has said sexual violence in conflict is a brutal crime, mainly perpetrated against women and girls, but also affecting men and boys.

He said this today in a message marking the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

"On this International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, we stand in solidarity with survivors. We vow to listen to them and act on their experiences and decisions. We must prevent and end these crimes; place survivors at the centre of our response; hold perpetrators accountable; and expand support for all those affected," said the UN secretary-general.  

Guterres has also said that it reverberates throughout communities and societies, perpetuating cycles of violence and threatening international peace and security.

"As the Covid-19 pandemic rages through regions of the world that are affected by armed conflict, survivors confront even greater challenges," he said adding that reporting crimes may be difficult; shelters and clinics may be closed amid the pandemic.