The United Nations (UN) Victims’ Rights Advocate, Najla Nassif Palma, has urged survivors of sexual exploitation and abuse by UN personnel to come forward.
Calling for stronger action across the UN system and greater focus on victims’ rights by Member States.
Her office is mandated to ensure victims have a voice, as well as access to assistance and justice.
The role was established in 2017 by UN Secretary-General António Guterres as part of efforts to tackle sexual exploitation and abuse within the organisation.
Speaking to UN News’s Ana Carmo following the release of a new report, Nassif Palma said progress has been made in expanding access to medical, psychosocial and legal support, as well as education and livelihood assistance for children born as a result of exploitation.
However, she warned that significant gaps remain.
–Chanel Africa–
