China Calls for Peace and Stronger Justice Systems to Fight Conflict-Related Sexual

New York, July 11, 2026 - China has called for renewed international efforts to combat conflict-related sexual violence, stressing that restoring peace and strengthening national institutions remain essential to protecting victims and preventing further abuses. Speaking during a United Nations Security Council session on Wednesday, July 8, Ambassador Fu Cong, China’s representative to the UN, condemned the rise of sexual violence in conflict zones, describing the use of such crimes as a weapon of war and terrorism as a serious violation of international law. The Chinese diplomat warned that women and girls remain the primary victims of these abuses, which cause long-term physical, psychological, and social consequences for survivors, their families, and communities. During the meeting, chaired by the Democratic Republic of Congo, China expressed support for international efforts to prevent sexual violence and called on states to strengthen cooperation in addressing the issue. The discussion comes amid growing concern from the United Nations over the global increase in conflict-related sexual violence, with eastern DRC among the regions facing persistent challenges due to the activities of armed groups and ongoing insecurity. Ambassador Fu Cong emphasized that national governments bear the primary responsibility for protecting civilians, preventing sexual violence, and ensuring justice for victims. He called on the international community to respect national sovereignty while supporting countries in improving security institutions and legal systems. The Chinese representative highlighted the efforts of countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Colombia, which have worked with the United Nations to strengthen investigations, prosecutions, police and military oversight, survivor assistance programs, and reparations mechanisms. China also stressed that peace and stability are necessary conditions for ending conflict-related sexual violence. According to Beijing, armed conflicts, weakened institutions, and instability create environments where such crimes can continue. Fu Cong urged the international community to prioritize conflict prevention, mediation, ceasefire efforts, and respect for international humanitarian law. He also called for stronger cooperation against terrorism and armed groups that contribute to instability. Beyond accountability, China emphasized the need to expand support services for survivors, including medical care, psychological assistance, legal support, education, and economic reintegration programs. The diplomat also raised concerns over declining humanitarian funding worldwide, warning that financial shortages are limiting assistance programs and leaving many survivors without adequate support. He called on donor countries to provide stable and predictable funding for affected populations. The debate takes place as women and girls in eastern DRC continue to face serious risks linked to armed violence. Congolese authorities have repeatedly warned that insecurity involving local and foreign armed groups, including AFC/M23, has increased civilian vulnerability. Despite ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict in eastern DRC, including regional peace processes, violence continues in several areas. Political commitments have yet to translate into lasting improvements on the ground, as armed actors remain engaged in confrontations and continue accusing each other of violating agreements.