Sri Lanka endorses declaration to end sexual violence in conflict

The Sri Lankan Government today endorsed the declaration of commitment to end sexual violence in conflict.

At an event held at the United Nations on 25th September 2013 in New York, 122 Member States of the United Nations endorsed the declaration of commitment to end sexual violence in conflict.

Today, this declaration is endorsed by 155 UN member states.

The Foreign Ministry said that the Government of Sri Lanka, in manifestation of its firm commitment to uphold, promote and protect the human rights of all, and denounce sexual violence, has decided to endorse the declaration of commitment to end sexual violence in conflict.

The Foreign Ministry added that Sri Lanka thereby recognizes that the prevention of sexual violence in conflict is critical to peace, security and sustainable development; reiterates its commitment to ending impunity for such crimes; acknowledges the rights and dignity of victims and survivors; and resolves to support global efforts to collectively address these crimes.

A?report released in 2014 alleged that Tamils who had been detained by Sri Lankan authorities during and after the war. had suffered some form of sexual abuse.

The report had urged the UN to?initiate an inquiry into the allegations of abuse.?(Colombo Gazette)