It is a pleasure for me to take part in the introduction of the Secretary-General's [Special] Representative, Margot Wallström. As ending sexual violence in conflict situations remains a top priority for the Secretary-General, who has called for increased action by the international community to prevent violence, to protect individuals, to punish perpetrators and provide redress to victims.

As you all know, the Security Council, most recently through Resolution 1888 in October last year, has recognized the urgent need to do everything possible to end this present-day atrocity which affects millions of people, primarily women and girls.

The appointment of Ms. Margot Wallström as SRSG in conflict situations is a clear demonstration of international resolve around this issue, and is a major step towards protection of civilians subjected to sexual violence in conflict situations, but also in post-conflict situations, a crime which too often goes undetected and unpunished.

So I'm very happy to be here with you and also with my colleague