Nobody has been convicted for sexual violence during war time (Kosovapress)
The National Council for the Survivors of Sexual Violence during the war today held its closing meeting and presented the work of the Council on victims of sexual violence during the war. At the meeting chaired by President Atifete Jahjaga it was discussed, among other things, the application of the legal rights of these victims and their access to justice. Jahjaga said that Kosovo institutions have demonstrated commitment to fight the stigmatization of these victims. She urged survivors of sexual violence not to feel guilty and ashamed because the shame and guilt lies with the perpetrators of these acts. Jahjaga also stressed that the work of this Council is an example for countries around the world, for the treatment of survivors of sexual violence during the war, while adding that Kosovo institutions now have clear obligations to address these victims. "Yet, nobody has been convicted for war crimes. I expect from all of our society to respect the sacrifice of survivors,” Jahajga said. Meanwhile, Justice Minister Hajredin Kuci said a strategic plan was designed for easy access to justice for these victims. He also called for the submission of cases of those who have suffered sexual violence during the war. The United States Ambassador to Kosovo, Greg Delawie, said the sexual violence survivors deserve more and that crimes committed against these survivors should be brought to justice. Delawie also urged the prosecutors to do more in this regard.