**Title: Cyprus Calls for Enhanced Global Action on Wartime Sexual Violence**
In a significant address at the United Nations Security Council, Cyprus has urged the international community to take stronger measures to support survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. The call comes in light of the lasting impact of sexual violence experienced during the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, an event that continues to resonate deeply within Cypriot society.
Maria Michael, Cyprus’ permanent representative to the UN, articulated the nation’s position during an open debate focused on the women, peace, and security agenda. She highlighted the grim reality that hundreds of women, girls, men, and boys suffered sexual violence at the hands of Turkish troops during the invasion. “The pain of those survivors remains an open wound for Cypriot society,” Michael stated, emphasizing that Cyprus’ own history informs its commitment to recognition, justice, accountability, and support for survivors globally.
Referencing a recent report by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Michael pointed out the alarming prevalence of conflict-related sexual violence worldwide. She underscored that Cyprus, having experienced foreign military invasion and enduring Turkey’s ongoing occupation for over five decades, understands the devastating and long-lasting consequences of such violence.
Michael also noted a resolution passed by the European Parliament, which condemned the sexual violence perpetrated by Turkish troops during the 1974 invasion. This resolution, she argued, is a crucial step toward preserving historical memory and raising awareness on both European and international stages.
The Cypriot representative condemned all forms of gender-based violence, asserting that these crimes are often employed as tactics of war, terror, torture, and political repression. “They devastate individuals and communities while undermining the prospects for lasting peace,” she stated. Michael emphasized that acts of rape and other forms of sexual violence in conflict may constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity, or acts of genocide under international law, making accountability essential for both justice and prevention.
In her address, Michael outlined three key priorities for the international community: placing survivors at the center of all responses, ending impunity, and ensuring the full, equal, meaningful, and safe participation of women in peace processes. She stressed the importance of providing survivors with timely access to justice, healthcare, legal aid, psychosocial support, and reparations, all without the fear of stigma or retaliation.
Michael urged states to enhance investigations and prosecutions related to conflict-related sexual violence and called for the greater application of existing UN Security Council sanctions regimes. These measures, she argued, should be fully utilized to reinforce accountability, deter future violations, and send a clear message that perpetrators will face justice.
Highlighting the critical roles of women’s protection advisers and local women’s organizations, she called for sustained funding and support for their initiatives in prevention, early warning, and assistance to survivors. Michael reiterated that sustainable peace cannot be achieved without the active and meaningful participation of women.
In line with this commitment, Cyprus has adopted its second national action plan on women, peace, and security earlier this year. This plan reaffirms the country’s dedication to implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which focuses on participation, protection, prevention, relief, and recovery for women affected by conflict.
Cyprus continues to provide humanitarian assistance and development cooperation to support women and girls impacted by conflict through its Cyprus Aid program. Concluding her address, Michael emphasized that international law demands more than mere declarations; it necessitates concrete actions to protect survivors, hold perpetrators accountable, and address the root causes of conflict-related sexual violence.
“Cyprus stands ready to continue working with the international community to strengthen the global response to conflict-related sexual violence and advance the full implementation of the women, peace, and security agenda,” she affirmed, calling for a united effort to ensure that such crimes are never accepted as an inevitable consequence of war.