Gërvalla: Sexual violence during the war was used as a weapon of war, justice remains an obligation of institutions

Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Justice, Donika Gërvalla, participated in the conference “Together for Recognition and Support” marking the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence as a Weapon of War. In her address, Gërvalla stated that the day serves to honor survivors of sexual violence during the Kosovo war and to reaffirm the commitment to justice. She asserted that sexual violence during the conflict was not an accidental byproduct of the fighting, but rather a crime intentionally planned and deployed as a weapon of war.

“Sexual violence was not an incidental part or an accidental result of war. It was used as a weapon of war. It was used to humiliate, to intimidate and to leave deep wounds, which continue to be felt today,” she stated.

Addressing survivors, Gërvalla commended their bravery for overcoming silence to seek justice. She noted, “For many years, silence weighed heavily on these crimes. Therefore, today we honor not only the suffering of the survivors, but above all their courage to speak out, to testify and to seek justice.” The minister acknowledged the contributions of civil society organizations and activists, specifically mentioning the role of former President Atifete Jahjaga in raising public awareness regarding this issue.

Gërvalla detailed concrete actions taken by Kosovo institutions to document, investigate, and prosecute war crimes, citing the strengthening of institutional capacities and the establishment of support mechanisms for survivors. She also mentioned enabling trials in absentia for war crimes, emphasizing that “the lack of cooperation from Serbia should not become a permanent obstacle to our pursuit of justice.” Concluding her remarks, Gërvalla reiterated that ensuring justice for survivors is a continuous institutional obligation, asserting that perpetrators of these sexual violence crimes must be held accountable. She concluded, “We will not forget and we will not remain silent.

We will not stop demanding true justice, institutional justice and accountability for all war crimes.”

Topics: #sexual #violence #war