UK and Malaysia train peacekeepers on preventing sexual exploitation and abuse
The British High Commission and the Malaysian Ministry of Defence have jointly delivered a week-long training course on 'Preventing Sexual Exploitation and Abuse'.
Preventing Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Training
UK experts specialising in preventing sexual violence in conflict were here at the Malaysian Peacekeeping Centre in Port Dickson, training members of the Malaysian Armed Forces who will be deployed on future international peacekeeping operations.
Addressing the opening session on 8 Aug 2017, the British High Commissioner H.E. Vicki Treadell CMG MVO said:
The widespread use of rape and other acts of sexual violence as a weapon of war in armed conflicts around the world is one of the greatest, most persistent and most neglected injustices. The UK has spearheaded efforts in recent years to raise global awareness and encourage global action to prevent such atrocious acts, as well as to bring those who perpetrated these acts to justice.
This training, delivered in partnership with the Malaysian Ministry of Defence, will ensure peacekeepers have the skills to properly document and investigate incidents of sexual violence and are equipped to properly support victims. We welcome Malaysia’s commitment to this important initiative, joining the global fight to end sexual violence in conflict.
The Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative was co-founded by former UK Foreign Secretary, William Hague and the Special Envoy of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Angelina Jolie Pitt. Since 2012, over 17,000 military and police personnel worldwide have received similar training.