
December, 2021 | Author: United Nations
Depending on the circumstances of an offense, conflict-related sexual violence can constitute a war crime, crime against humanity, act of torture, or constituent act of genocide, under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. The Security Council has recognized in a series of resolutions sexual violence, when used as a method or tactic of war or terrorism, to constitute a threat to international security and an impediment to peace. In recognition that the effective prevention, deterrence and response to conflict-related sexual violence requires political leadership and accountability, and a survivor-centered approach, DPPA has prioritized addressing conflict-related sexual violence as a fundamental part of its women, peace and security and mediation work.
The United Nations requires its mediators to address conflict-related sexual violence. To this end, in 2012, the gender team, then part of the Mediation Support Unit, in the Policy and Mediation Division of the now Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) issued Guidance for Mediators: Addressing Conflict-Related Sexual Violence in Ceasefire and Peace Agreements.
Key principles include an obligation to engage parties in discussing the issue and to work towards firm commitments to cease all acts of conflict-related sexual violence. The guidelines also require that conflict-related sexual violence be included in the definition of acts covered by a ceasefire, be monitored alongside other potential violations of ceasefires, and are excluded from amnesty provisions.
Central African Republic: 11 January 2013 Ceasefire Agreement and Declaration of Principles
A December 2012 country-wide offensive, launched by factions of Central African armed groups under the rebel coalition "Seleka", was eventually halted through the initiation of dialogue in Libreville, Gabon, and a signed Ceasefire Agreement and Declaration of Principles.
As part of the Department of Political Affairs’ efforts in providing mediation-related support to the crisis, the 11 January 2013 Ceasefire Agreement and Declaration of Principles contain provisions that:
Require the immediate halt of sexual violence by the conflicting parties.
Make sexual violence a prohibited act in the definition of ceasefire.
Require that sexual violence is addressed in a programme of urgent priority agreed to by the parties for the consolidation of peace.
Experts Welcome New Guidance
Bosnia: Healing the Wounds of War
December, 2021 | Author: United Nations
June, 2020 | Author: United Nations
This Handbook is intended to serve as a practical guide to support the implementation of the CRSV mandate by United Nations Field Missions, including Peacekeeping Operations and Special Political Missions. It serves both as a guidance for civilians, military, and police personnel deployed to United Nations Field Missions and as a pre-deployment orientation tool for future Mission personnel.
January, 2020 | Author: United Nations
January, 2012 | Author: United Nations (DPA, now DPPA)
Prepared in response to the request of the General Assembly and in conformity with the Charter of the United Nations, the Guidance aims to inform the design and management of mediation processes. It is intended as a resource for mediators, States and other actors supporting mediation efforts but is also relevant for conflict parties, civil society and other stakeholders.