Statement (EOV) by the delegation of Ukraine following adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 2272 (2016) on sexual abuse by UN peacekeepers

(10 March 2016)

Mr. President,

Ukraine welcomes adoption of the resolution before us.

We also commend the US delegation for its leadership in preparing the draft and conducting negotiations.

During the yesterday’s debate the lack of sufficient progress in the fight against sexual exploitation and abuse in the last decade was acknowledged almost by all delegations. The numbers of allegations did not diminish. The crimes committed today are as appalling as they were years ago.

We believe that the Security Council is uniquely positioned to send a strong message concerning this problem. That is why we fully supported the adoption of today’s resolution. We hope that the adopted document will serve as a clear political signal to all parties concerned that the Security Council stands for the urgent need to implement a more assertive approach with regard to the UN policy on sexual exploitation and abuse.

I would like to re-affirm our determination as a troop and police contributing country to strengthen the fight against sexual exploitation and abuse and to engage with all stakeholders to implement necessary steps and mechanisms.