FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—June 27, 2016

[Windhoek, Namibia] –  The African Caribbean Pacific (ACP)- European Union (EU) Joint Parliamentary Assembly (JPA) adopted a resolution on rape and sexual violence against women and children in armed conflict that recognized rape as an element crime of genocide when commmitted with the intent to destroy the targeted group.

The resolution further called for abortion to be treated as necessary medical care for girls and women impregnated by rape in war under international humanitarian law. The resolution also further affirmed that the Geneva Conventions and its additional protocols applies in times of conflict and supersedes national or local law.

It called on all states to prevent rape and sexual violence in conflict and ensure that victims recieve adequate medical care including access to sexual and reproductive healthcare in line with the Geneva Conventions. It called on states to prosecute perpetrators and on the UN to provide its members with training guidelines on the particular needs of children. The resolution asked states involved in post-conflict humanitarian activities to collect data on rape and sexual violence in conflict.

“This strongly worded resolution demonstrates the political will that exists to address these serious issues” said Akila Radhakrishnan, Global Justice Center, Legal Director.

The resolution was adopted by Members of the European Parliament together with MPs from the 78 ACP states

For more information contact:
Stephanie Olszewski (New York), solszewski@globaljusticecenter.net, +1.212.725.6530 ext. 211