Thank you, Moderator,
I thank the Permanent Representative of Argentina, Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict Pramila Patten and of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict Ms. Virginia Gamba for their speeches and for giving us the possibility to speak on this solemn occasion. In aligning itself with the statement by the European Union, Italy reiterates its unwavering commitment to the eradication of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV), a heinous violation of human rights and of the international humanitarian law that continues to inflict immeasurable suffering on individuals, families, and entire communities. We pay tribute to the survivors –women, men, girls, and boys – whose courage and resilience in the face of trauma inspire our collective responsibility to act.
This year’s theme rightly brings into focus a dimension of CRSV that is too often overlooked: its intergenerational impact. As the Secretary-General reminds us in his message for this day, these crimes leave invisible scars that transcend time and lineage, perpetuating cycles of trauma, exclusion, and vulnerability.
It is necessary to shed light on the devastating reality faced by children born of wartime rape. These children are often denied legal identity, access to education, healthcare, and inheritance, and are subjected to social ostracism and institutional neglect. Their mothers, in turn, endure deep psychological trauma that affects their ability to provide care and protection, creating environments of compounded vulnerability.
CRSV is not incidental. It is a weapon of war, a deliberate strategy used to terrorize, dominate, and displace. Actually, it is a tactic to fracture social fabrics.
As a long-standing advocate of the Women, Peace and Security agenda, Italy actively contributes to the efforts to prevent sexual violence in conflict, support survivors, and promote accountability. We champion the integration of gender-sensitive approaches in peacekeeping, humanitarian response, and transitional justice mechanisms.
Finally, Italy is determined to continue firmly supporting international initiatives for the prevention of sexual violence in conflict and emergency situations in the context of our candidature to the Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 mandate.
Excellencies,
We must build systems that heal, not just punish. We must listen to survivors, empower affected communities, and invest in solutions that address the long shadow cast by sexual violence – across generations, across borders, and across time.
Thank you.
