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Remarks by the delegation of Ukraine at the High-Level meeting to mark the twenty-fifth anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of violence against Women (25 November 2024)

Excellencies, 

Distinguished delegates, 

Mr. President,

As we all gathered here today to mark the twenty-fifth anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations General Assembly resolution 54/134 – a fundamental accomplishment that both - proclaimed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and paved the way to ensure the swift and just protection against all forms of gender-based violence. Honouring the memory and courage of the Mirabal sisters, we came together on this day to emphasise that the safety, dignity, and freedom of every woman is non-negotiable. Ukraine firmly reaffirms its unwavering commitment to gender equality and women empowerment both within its borders and worldwide.

While we recognize the progress achieved since the adoption of this resolution, Ukraine, unfortunately, faces a grave reality that lasts for more the 10 years. In the third year of russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine, the issue of addressing conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) is one of the most acute and urgent. It is clear that the russian occupying forces are using the gender-based and sexual violence as a method and a weapon of warfare, deliberately committing acts of terror designed to strip away dignity and security of women and girls, regardless of age. The latest report from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights listed about 263 confirmed cases of conflict-related sexual violence, while Ukrainian prosecutors documented 326 cases.  However, this is merely the tip of the iceberg, as many survivors remain too terrified to speak about the horrific atrocities committed by russian soldiers and law enforcement officials.

Mr. President,

To combat the detrimental effects of conflict-related sexual violence perpetrated by Russian forces, Ukraine has undertaken several initiatives and projects, ensuring that victims receive the required assistance and aid. Under the Memorandum between the Office of the Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine, the Government Commissioner for Gender Policy, and the Global Survivors Fund, Ukraine is launching a pilot project to deliver immediate emergency financial assistance to victims of sexual violence related to the aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. As of today, 556 applications have been received, with 333 cases approved for compensation. Additionally, two other projects are currently underway in collaboration with the UN, specifically the "UN Action against Sexual Violence in Conflict" and the "Joint Program for Ukraine on the Issues of the SICC." 

Despite the heavy workload ahead, Ukraine stays committed to safeguarding women’s human rights from all types of gender-based violence, especially in the context of armed conflicts.

But our sole efforts are not enough to stop the psychological impact and widespread consequences of these war crimes, that will reverberate for generations. Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of why the international community must intensify its efforts to eliminate such violence, especially in the conflict zones where women and girls are most vulnerable. With over 230 million women worldwide experiencing gender-based violence in 2023, it is more than clear that our duty lies in eliminating all forms of gender-based violence and discrimination, ensuring justice in form of swift prosecution and conviction of perpetrators. We must bring an end to impunity.

Mr. President,

This day should serve as a catalyst for change. We cannot tolerate the normalization of sexual and gender-based violence any longer. Ukraine reaffirms its commitment to working alongside other nations to safeguarding women’s human rights from all types of gender-based violence, especially in the context of armed conflicts.

Thank you.