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Human Rights Minister meets President of the Red Cross

Baroness Anelay met the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Peter Maurer, to discuss their vital work and support for the UK’s Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative

From:
Foreign & Commonwealth Office and The Rt Hon Baroness Anelay of St Johns DBE
Published
7 July 2015
This was published under the 2015 to 2016 Cameron Conservative government

The President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Peter Maurer, held talks with Baroness Anelay on the organisation’s vital work in some of the most difficult environments in the world.

Following the meeting Baroness Anelay said:

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) undertakes essential humanitarian work in some of the most difficult environments in the world. As one of the largest and oldest humanitarian organisations, they are able to access areas and provide assistance where states often cannot reach. The UK is extremely grateful for the courageous work they do, helping to alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable.

The ICRC has played a key role in supporting the Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative and the development of the International Protocol on the Documentation and Investigation of Sexual Violence in Conflict that was launched at the 2014 Global Summit.

I will continue to work closely with Mr Maurer and together we will work to promote the International Protocol as a key recourse for those investigating sexual violence crimes which will support victims and help ensure the perpetrators are held accountable. We will also work together to ensure that the issue of sexual violence in conflict continues to remain high on the international agenda.

I welcome the excellent co-operation between the UK Government and ICRC and I look forward to continuing our productive relationship.

Further information

  • ICRC has an internationally recognised humanitarian role in providing protection and assistance during armed conflicts.

  • The UK works closely with the ICRC on humanitarian assistance and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) matters.

  • During his visit President Maurer also met with Hugo Swire, FCO Minister of State, and Ministers from MoD and DFID.

  • Follow Foreign Office Minister Baroness Anelay on Twitter @JoyceAnelay

  • Follow the Foreign Office on Twitter @foreignoffice

  • Follow the Foreign Office on Facebook and Google+

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Published 7 July 2015