UN Security Council Open Debate on CRSV
“Identifying innovative strategies to ensure access to life-saving services and protection to survivors of sexual violence in conflict zones”
Statement delivered Ms. Katri Lõhmus, Deputy Permanent Representative of Estonia
New York, 19 August 2025
President,
I would like to thank Panama for organising today’s open debate and the briefers for their presentations.
Estonia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union as well as the Group of Friends of Women, Peace and Security, and would like to emphasise the following points in the national capacity.
Twenty-five years after the adoption of the Security Council Resolution 1325, conflict-related sexual violence remains a widespread and devastating tactic of war. As the Secretary-General’s latest report makes clear, 2024 saw a rise in verified cases along with record displacement, growing militarization and shrinking humanitarian space. Women and girls are disproportionately targeted, while men and boys also suffer from these crimes. Conflict-related sexual violence is a grave violation of international law and is recognized as a war crime and a crime against humanity.
We must address the causes of these crimes, in particular, impunity. Accountability, as the Secretary-General’s report rightly stresses, is non-negotiable and must be a priority. Survivors must be at the centre of our response and we must provide the resources needed for comprehensive support – from sexual and reproductive health services to psychological and legal help, and long-term reintegration.
President,
It is especially alarming that one of the Council’s permanent members – the Russian Federation – is credibly documented in the Secretary-General’s report as responsible for over 200 cases of rape and other forms of sexual violence against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war.
The Secretary-General has taken the step of placing Russia “on notice” for potential listing in the annex of the next report. The evidence leaves no doubt Russia deserves to be there.
Russia must end these violations immediately and grant access to independent investigators. Its use of sexual violence as a tool of war is a disgrace to this Council, to international law, and to our shared humanity.
For the first time, Hamas has been listed among parties credibly suspected of committing or being responsible for conflict-related sexual violence. We also note with concern the incidents perpetrated by Israeli armed and security forces, leading to the Secretary General’s decision to put Israel “on notice”.
Estonia expresses its deep concern over the horrors that people face in Sudan and commends all victims who had shared their testimony for their bravery. These stories once again show us that a survivor centred approach is key.
President,
Estonia remains committed to working with partners to strengthen the UN’s capacity to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence. We have been a consistent supporter and donor to key UN mechanisms, including to the Office and mandate of the Special Representative, the Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict, as well as UNFPA, UNHCR and other relevant instruments.
We will continue supporting affected countries in delivering services, building national capacities and ensuring justice.
The survivors’ courage obliges us to act. Our collective credibility depends on turning the Council’s words into action and holding perpetrators to account.
I thank you.