First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ivica Dacic issued a statement on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, observed today, which reads as follows: ”Sexual violence in conflicts exemplifies the cruellest method of warfare and is the most ruthless occurrence in armed conflict”.

The consequences of such crimes may affect several generations and are characterized by long-standing trauma often coupled with stigmatization of victims and long-term health effects.

By observing the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict we seek to give voice to many forgotten victims of war who experienced stigmatization, shame and exclusion from their communities for a long time polarized by armed conflict.

By its steady commitment to the prevention of all forms of violence, including sexual violence in armed conflict, the Republic of Serbia has strongly supported the efforts of the UN Security Council, its Secretary General and other UN mechanisms put in place to eradicate as soon as possible this crime that affects the most vulnerable individuals in any armed conflict. Moreover, Serbia co-sponsored the UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/69/293 in 2015, proclaiming 19 June the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

I take this opportunity to once again reiterate our full commitment to eradication of the evil practice of sexual violence in conflict and our determination to have justice served, offering support and assistance to all victims of this heinous crime”, the Serbian Foreign Minister said.