Timor-Leste Calls for Protection of Healthcare Facilities in Conflict
New York, 19 June 2024 – Timor-Leste joined the panel discussion “Attacks against healthcare in conflict-affected areas: impacts for survivors of conflict-related sexual violence” to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict 2024.
In its statement, Timor-Leste noted how targeting of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and health care facilities, has been an explicit strategy of modern warfare. These attacks must be avoided, as they lead to loss of life and health services, as well as long-term health issues, and are a grave violation of humanitarian law and human rights, and international criminal law.
These attacks bring severe impact on survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, who often require specialized medical care and psychological support, which is compromised when healthcare facilities are attacked. The lack of access to healthcare assistance can lead to long-term physical and mental health consequences.
The international community must take action to protect healthcare in conflict-affected areas, including supporting humanitarian organizations, holding perpetrators accountable, and advocating for the respect of humanitarian law and human rights. The UN needs to take action to prevent the use of health facilities for non-health-related purposes. We must ensure that survivors of conflict-related sexual violence receive the care they need and deserve.
