UNITED NATIONS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday emphasized the crucial role of healthcare in addressing conflict-related sexual violence, advocating for the protection of hospitals and healthcare facilities to support survivors.

On the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, the UN chief stated, "let us pledge to eliminate this scourge, stand in solidarity with survivors, and reaffirm our commitment to protecting hospitals and healthcare facilities during conflict."

The past year has brought distressing accounts of sexual violence in regions from Sudan to Haiti and Israel, underscoring the pervasive nature of this issue. "Despite widespread awareness and condemnation, this grotesque crime continues around the world," Guterres noted.

He highlighted the grave injustice that "perpetrators walk free while survivors spend their entire lives in recovery."

Focusing on healthcare, the top UN official emphasized the importance of safeguarding medical facilities: "Hospitals and other healthcare facilities should be beacons of safety and healing for all those injured in conflict, including the survivors of sexual violence." These principles are core to international humanitarian law.

However, Guterres expressed concern over the frequent attacks on medical facilities and staff, which "can severely limit access to medical care and psychosocial support for survivors."

He pointed out the specific needs of women and girls, who may require immediate sexual and reproductive healthcare due to pregnancy from rape, and the challenges faced by men and boys, who "may be at risk of increased isolation if they cannot access appropriate care."

Since 2015, the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict has been observed annually on June 19. The event marks the UN Security Council's adoption of a resolution recognizing sexual violence as a weapon of war and a threat to international peace and security. ■