Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Sergiy Kyslytsya spoke out against the Russian Federation’s use of sexual violence as a weapon during a meeting of the U.N. Security Council. Kyslytsya highlighted the nearly 300 cases of sexual violence committed by Russian forces since the beginning of the full-scale war in Ukraine. He also mentioned that over 50 percent of detainees released from Russian captivity had experienced torture, rape, or other forms of sexual violence. The Prosecutor General’s Office documented crimes against 188 women, 102 men, and 15 minors, although these figures are likely undercounted. Kyslytsya emphasized the urgent need for support and justice for survivors of sexual violence.
In response to the allegations, the Russian Federation’s representative dismissed Kyslytsya’s claims as unverified and criticized the debate for becoming a platform for political statements and manipulation. However, Kyslytsya pointed out that Russia’s war crimes have been documented in reports from the Independent Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). The issue of sexual violence in conflict zones is a serious concern that requires immediate attention and action.
Ukraine has taken steps to address the issue of sexual violence by launching a pilot program to provide emergency financial reparations to victims. This program, supported by the Global Survivors Fund, aims to assist victims of conflict-related sexual assault. Kyslytsya emphasized the importance of supporting survivors of sexual violence and ensuring that they receive the necessary assistance and justice. The pilot program represents a proactive effort to address the needs of victims and provide them with the support they require.
Working on cases of sexual and gender-based crimes in conflict zones can be a harrowing experience, involving the recounting of unimaginable suffering in excruciating detail. The Mobile Justice Teams (MJTs) in Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office collaborate with investigators and prosecutors to address these crimes and seek justice for the victims. The testimonies and evidence gathered in these cases shed light on the atrocities committed and highlight the urgent need for accountability and support for survivors. The work of the MJTs plays a crucial role in advocating for victims and holding perpetrators accountable for their heinous acts.
The use of sexual violence as a weapon in conflict is a clear violation of international humanitarian law and human rights standards. It is essential for the international community to condemn such acts and take decisive action to prevent and address sexual violence in conflict zones. By supporting independent journalism and advocating for the rights of survivors, individuals can play a role in promoting accountability and justice for victims of sexual violence. The ongoing efforts to address sexual violence in Ukraine underscore the importance of standing in solidarity with survivors and supporting their journey towards healing and justice.
