Norway warns against abuse of women and children in Ukraine

Photo: AP Photo / John Minchillo

Norway’s UN Ambassador Mona Juul warns against the use of sexual violence as a weapon during the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

“The war increases the risk of sexual and gender-based violence, including sexual violence used as a tactic in warfare. This gives cause for great concern,” Juul said at the UN Security Council on Tuesday.

Norway’s UN ambassador also warned of the consequences of the war on Ukraine’s children.

“Measures must be taken immediately to protect the children from the conflict,” she said, referring to the need for health care.

“Many children have fled and are unaccompanied. They are extremely vulnerable and must be protected,” Juul said.

Human trafficking

More than 10 million Ukrainians are now fleeing in and outside the country’s borders, primarily women and children, and there are disturbing reports of human trafficking, she pointed out.

“This must be addressed immediately by everyone, both by the UN and by the host countries,” Juul said.

Norway is also deeply concerned about the global consequences of the war in Ukraine.

Global consequences

“More than 60% of the population may fall below the poverty line over the next twelve months. The conflict will seriously negatively affect the agricultural sector and will probably lead to global food insecurity and higher fuel and fertilizer prices. All of this is contributing to social unrest and instability around the world,” Juul said.

“The ripple effects of Russia’s aggression will be particularly felt by those living in conflict- and crisis-stricken countries such as Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, and South Sudan,” she continued.

“Russia must stop its unjust war. It is the only way to end the humanitarian catastrophe inside and outside Ukraine,” Juul concluded.

Source: © NTB Scanpix / #Norway Today / #NorwayTodayNews

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