Leaders must back Hague in tackling rape in wartime

World Vision UK is calling on governments to back a declaration by William Hague at the UN later today, calling on countries to tackle the ‘abhorrent crime’ of sexual violence in conflict. 

The Foreign Secretary will urge members of the United Nations to sign a shared commitment to end the use of rape and sexual violence as ‘weapons of war’. 

Speaking in New York alongside Zainab Hawa Bangura, the UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence, Mr Hague will demand concrete action to punish perpetrators, empower victims and to ‘shift the stigma of shame’. 

Erica Hall, Senior Child Rights Advisor for World Vision UK, said: “When society breaks down in times of war, rape and sexual violence often becomes commonplace and can emerge as a weapon of conflict. 

“The heartbreaking reality is that children represent around half the reported victims of sexual violence in wartime, yet their needs are frequently overlooked. Perpetrators must be brought to justice and victims need support to rebuild their lives. 

"The British Government has a strong track-record of leadership on this issue, but it requires long-term commitment and funding from the international community.” 

Mr Hague is addressing world leaders as the 68th UN General Assembly Debate gets under way in New York. The event is due to begin at 7.30pm UK time.