China commends DRC’s anti-sexual violence efforts at UN Security Council
security matters
China hails DRC’s progress in combating sexual violence at UN Security Council
- Security
During a United Nations Security Council session focused on sexual violence in conflict zones, Chinese Ambassador Fu Cong highlighted the alarming escalation of this scourge, particularly affecting women and girls in war-torn regions. The diplomat condemned the systematic use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and terrorism, which constitutes a blatant violation of international law and UN resolutions.
Ambassador Fu Cong emphasized that the deterioration of international stability has led to a surge in sexual violence cases worldwide, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) being one of the most severely impacted countries. In the DRC’s eastern regions, ongoing conflicts involving both local and foreign armed groups, compounded by alleged cross-border aggression, continue to expose women to unimaginable atrocities.
The Chinese representative stressed that addressing sexual violence requires strengthening national sovereignty and empowering local authorities. He called on the international community to respect the sovereignty of affected nations while providing targeted support to enhance their security and judicial capacities. China particularly praised the DRC’s proactive measures, including improved investigations, military reforms, and victim assistance programs conducted in collaboration with UN agencies.
During Wednesday’s Security Council session, chaired by the DRC, Ambassador Fu Cong delivered a strong condemnation of all forms of sexual violence in conflict zones. He highlighted that the United Nations’ latest report reveals a dramatic 100% increase in such crimes over the past year, reaching unprecedented levels amid escalating global conflicts and eroding respect for international humanitarian law. The DRC’s eastern territories remain particularly vulnerable due to persistent armed group activities and cross-border tensions.
The Chinese diplomat underscored that lasting peace and stability are fundamental prerequisites for eradicating sexual violence in conflict zones. He argued that ongoing wars, social unrest, and weakened state institutions create fertile ground for such atrocities to thrive. “Only through peace and stability can we effectively combat sexual violence at its roots and create an environment conducive to justice and humanitarian action,” he stated.
Ambassador Fu Cong called for a unified international approach, emphasizing the need to prioritize peaceful conflict resolution, strengthen preventive diplomacy, and promote ceasefires. He also stressed the importance of maintaining a zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism and enhancing international cooperation to dismantle terrorist networks.
The Chinese representative also highlighted the critical role of victim support mechanisms, advocating for comprehensive assistance programs that address survivors’ medical, psychological, legal, and economic needs. He warned that chronic underfunding of UN humanitarian programs is leaving countless survivors without essential services, urging donor nations to fulfill their financial commitments to conflict-affected regions.
This Security Council meeting takes place against a backdrop of persistent violence in the DRC’s eastern provinces, where women continue to bear the brunt of sexual atrocities linked to ongoing conflicts involving both domestic and foreign armed factions. The diplomatic efforts to resolve this crisis remain ongoing, with regional stakeholders intensifying consultations to restore stability and protect civilians.
