Delivered by: HE Ghasaq Shaheen, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative

Madam President,

I thank Prime Minister Tuluka for convening the open debate, and I thank Special Representative Patten and her office for their important contributions.

The UAE aligns itself with the statement delivered by Canada on behalf of the Group of Friends for Women, Peace and Security.

Madam President,

The Secretary-General’s report presents a deeply alarming picture. Verified cases of conflict-related sexual violence continue to rise, alongside deeply concerning patterns of violence and a range of actors implicated, including actors with clear obligations to protect civilians. The UAE strongly condemns these crimes, as well as all forms of sexual and gender-based violence.

This alarming trend demands a strong response from the Security Council, particularly as restricted humanitarian access, limited funding and peacekeeping transitions risk weakening protection and accountability for survivors.

In this regard, I would like to offer three recommendations:

First, we must strengthen the resilience of women and girls through survivor-centered responses. This means safe and timely access to healthcare, psychosocial support, legal assistance, and sustainable reintegration opportunities. Survivors must be included in the design and implementation of gender-responsive strategies.

Second, accountability must remain central to prevention and deterrence. The UAE continues to call for the inclusion of conflict-related sexual violence as a stand-alone designation criterion in the relevant UN Security Council sanctions regimes. Existing criteria in sanctions regime covering violations of international humanitarian law may also be applied to designate those who commit conflict-related sexual violence. These tools must be used consistently, particularly against persistent perpetrators. There can be no justice for the survivors without accountability and no credible prevention without consequences.

Third, we must remain vigilant that the drawdown and transition of peacekeeping operations do not create protection gaps that may reverse gains made so far. The UAE emphasizes the need to integrate conflict-related sexual violence considerations into transition planning. This includes maintaining monitoring and reporting mechanisms, and ensuring that survivor-centered services continue without interruption. Transitions should therefore include clear handover arrangements, continued deployment of Women Protection Advisers where needed, and sustained support for frontline service providers.

Madam President,

Before I conclude, I strongly reject the baseless allegation against the UAE made by the Sudanese representative, who represented the views of the Port Sudan Authority, a party implicated in shameful atrocities in the civil war in Sudan, including conflict-related sexual violence, as documented in the SG report.

The UAE has consistently condemned all acts of sexual violence by all parties. The Port Sudan Authority should stop deflecting responsibility for the war and engage in good-faith efforts to end it. The suffering of the Sudanese people demands it.

Thank you.