Government Chancellor in New York: Russia will face retribution for war crimes against Ukrainian women
The international community must make every effort to investigate sexual violence in Russia’s assault on Ukraine, pursue accountability for the perpetrators, and provide vital assistance to the victims, as noted by Government Chancellor Giedrė Balčytytė during her working visit to New York, coinciding with the 68th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW).
On Tuesday, the Government Chancellor addressed the UN Security Council Arria Formula meeting organized by Switzerland and met with Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten.
Acknowledging the harsh reality where women often find themselves as targets of different forms of violence in armed conflicts, the Government Chancellor highlighted global instances where women emerge as catalysts for change in the pursuit of democracy and peace.
Among them, are Ukrainian women defending themselves against Russian aggression, showing exceptional courage and initiative to ensure their daughters never experience similar ordeals, said the Government Chancellor at the Arria Formula meeting, dedicated to discussing the implementation of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, and the UN Women, Peace, and Security agenda.
‘The involvement of Ukrainian women across political, military, civilian, and humanitarian fronts in response to Russia’s war holds immense significance. About 80,000 women, including those fulfilling important support roles, serve in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Thousands of them stand at the forefront of battle. There are women who enlisted following the loss of parents, husbands, or sons. At this moment, while we are here, they are defending their homeland against the invaders from Russia, thus defending not only themselves but also all of us, as it is the defence of the rules-based world order,’ said the Government Chancellor.
During Tuesday’s meeting with Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Patten, the Government Chancellor reaffirmed Lithuania’s commitment to continue to pay attention to the issue of sexual violence in conflict. Lithuania is ready to deepen cooperation with the United Nations and other international formats on this critical matter.
The Special Representative discussed her latest report to the Security Council on Hamas’ sexual violence against Israeli women and children.
It is imperative for the international community to eschew indifference toward sexual violence, as it is wielded by aggressors as a weapon of war, a means to terrorize and subjugate civilian populations in occupied territories. Fresh accounts of such atrocities emerge from Ukraine, still under attack by Russia. These cases mandate thorough investigation, prosecution, legal proceedings, and comprehensive assistance to the victims. The response will not only shape the delivery of justice but also act as a deterrent against future crimes.
‘Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Lithuania has been providing aid to individuals from Ukraine who have suffered from sexual violence and are currently living in Lithuania, thus recognising the gravity of this issue,’ said Giedrė Balčytytė.
The effectiveness of this aid is ensured through cooperation not only among Lithuanian institutions but also with non-governmental organizations, the parties noted.