Danai Gurira, a celebrated actor and UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, delivered a compelling speech at the UN. She strongly advocated for more effective measures against conflict-related sexual violence. She addressed the 9614th Security Council Open Debate, focusing on demilitarization and gender-responsive arms control.

The discussion on the root causes of conflict-related sexual violence was led by prominent speakers including Ms. Pramila Patten, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Niemat Ahmadi, a civil society briefer, and Danai Gurira.

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They emphasized the critical need to address the gendered roots of violence and militarization to advance gender-responsive arms control and disarmament. This approach is essential to reduce the proliferation of weapons that enable such violence. The speakers highlighted how weapon ownership and usage are intertwined with harmful gender norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender-based discrimination. Consequently, efforts to prevent conflict-related sexual violence must focus on understanding the factors that lead to the victimization of women and girls, and on empowering them to take leadership roles in disarmament and arms control policies and processes.

What Does a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador Do?

Ambassadors like Gurira use their public platforms to promote women’s rights and gender equality globally. They emphasize critical issues that need global attention and action, aiming to mobilize resources and enact change. Gurira’s call for accountability and cultural change and in her speech she highlighted the severe issues within conflict zones, where powerful commanders commit atrocities with impunity. Soldiers carry out acts of terror without repercussions, and governments permit uncontrolled military operations. She pointed out that the problem is not only the proliferation of guns but also a lack of effective deterrence. Gurira emphasized that the expectation of assaulting without facing any punishment is contributing to an escalating and severe crisis.

Gurira stressed the need for accountability:

“Impunity cultures must end. Justice courts need to handle these cases. We must change male-dominated cultures where men fail to hold themselves and others accountable. Despite two decades of gender justice efforts, perpetrators feel they can escape punishment, and most survivors avoid seeking justice due to its rarity…If you let political conflicts exploit your most vulnerable and do nothing, you should not lead. We need real consequences for rape to turn the tide on this violence.

Danai Gurira’s Impact and Global Call to Action

Danai Gurira’s speech was a clear call to action for international leaders to change their approach to conflict and gender justice. She urged global cooperation to implement strict measures for accountability and protection for the most vulnerable.

Her dual role as an artist and advocate brings unique influence, driving change in addressing the atrocities of modern conflicts. Her message to the international community was unmistakable: commit to actionable steps to end the cycle of violence and impunity in conflict zones worldwide.

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