In the resolution adopted by consensus, the General Assembly “urges States to take effective measures, within the framework of national legislation and in accordance with international law, to allow victims of sexual violence access to justice, remedies and assistance” .
“My rape matters, my body matters.” With this slogan, rape victims yesterday (Friday) sent a resounding message to the UN, whose General Assembly approved a “historic” resolution on access to justice for those who have suffered sexual assaults.
In the resolution adopted by consensus, the General Assembly “urges States to take effective measures, within the framework of national legislation and in accordance with international law, to allow victims of sexual violence access to justice, remedies and assistance” .
The resolution, which was received with cheers and applause, particularly underlines the importance for victims of “quick and unimpeded access” to justice, the need to “strengthen” international cooperation and the protection of women’s rights.
Amanda Nguyen, founder of the non-governmental organization Rise, which fights for the voices of “1.3 billion victims of sexual assault around the world” to be heard, spoke of a “historic” decision, speaking to the French Agency (AFP).
“I wanted to be an astronaut, I didn’t want to be an activist. But here I am… just like the clothes I was wearing when I was raped, which are on display here,” Amanda, 30, added, referring to an exhibit titled “What Were You Wearing?” at the UN headquarters, which aimed to denounce the stigmatization of sexual assault victims by a section of public opinion.
Although the UN resolution is considered “symbolic in nature”, for Amanda Nguyen it represents progress. “We’re saying that rape matters to us and you have to acknowledge it,” she stresses.
Supporters of the resolution hoped that it would be adopted without “shadows” of reservations from member states. Nigeria – with the support of other countries including Egypt, Malaysia and Iran – attempted to impose amendments. However, all of the amendments – removing references to domestic sexual violence, gender-based violence or even access to contraception – were rejected.
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