**General Speech Length (GSL) for 1.

5 Minutes:**

"Honorable Chair, esteemed delegates, as the representative of Italy, I would like to begin by
emphasizing our firm commitment to combating war crimes against women, especially the
systematic use of sexual violence as a weapon of war. Italy, as a member of the European Union,
has always advocated for strong international legal frameworks that hold perpetrators
accountable, including our unwavering support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) and
the Rome Statute, which defines sexual violence as a war crime.

The use of sexual violence to destroy communities and undermine the dignity of women is an
egregious violation of international law. We cannot allow the perpetrators of such heinous acts
to escape justice. Italy calls for further strengthening of the tools available to the international
community, including enhancing the enforcement of international laws and ensuring that
survivors are provided with the necessary support, including medical and psychological care.

In addition, Italy believes in the power of women as peacebuilders. We have witnessed

firsthand the transformative role that women can play in post-conflict reconstruction and peace
processes. From Liberia to Colombia, women have proven time and again that their inclusion in
peace negotiations leads to more sustainable and long-lasting solutions. Italy strongly advocates
for the full participation of women in these processes and urges all nations to prioritize gender
equality and women’s empowerment as central components of peacebuilding efforts.

Furthermore, Italy recognizes the urgent need to address human trafficking and exploitation,
particularly in the aftermath of armed conflict. Post-conflict societies often see a rise in human
trafficking, where women and children are disproportionately affected. Italy has been actively
involved in supporting international treaties such as the Palermo Protocol, which aims to
prevent and combat trafficking. However, we must work together to strengthen the
enforcement of these agreements, especially in fragile post-conflict states, where legal
frameworks are often underdeveloped or absent.

In conclusion, Italy calls for a unified and sustained global effort to combat war crimes against
women. The international community must not only ensure that justice is served but also
prevent future atrocities by creating a robust framework for post-conflict rehabilitation,
providing survivor support, and ensuring women’s full participation in all aspects of
peacebuilding. Thank you."

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**Subtopics to Focus On:**

1. **Sexual Violence as a Weapon of War**: Discussing Italy’s position on sexual violence in
conflict, emphasizing the need for stronger international cooperation and legal measures.
2. **The Role of Women in Post-Conflict Governance**: Italy advocates for the empowerment
of women in political and social spheres, particularly in post-conflict settings.
3. **Human Trafficking in Post-Conflict Zones**: Addressing the growing issue of human
trafficking, particularly for sexual exploitation and forced labor, and Italy’s commitment to
combating it.
4. **Support for Survivors of War Crimes**: The provision of adequate medical, psychological,
and legal support for women survivors of war crimes.

**Allies:**
Italy’s allies are likely to include:
- **France**: A strong proponent of gender equality and international law, France is a natural
ally in pushing for stronger frameworks to protect women in conflict.
- **Germany**: As a leading EU nation, Germany shares Italy’s commitment to human rights
and gender equality.
- **Other EU Members**: Spain, Sweden, and the Netherlands, all of which are vocal about the
importance of women’s rights and the fight against sexual violence in conflict zones.

**Opponent Countries:**
- **Russia**: Given its involvement in Ukraine and Syria, Russia may oppose international
interventions and the strengthening of mechanisms like the ICC.
- **China**: With its focus on sovereignty and non-interference, China may resist measures
that challenge state authority or propose punitive measures against states.
- **Some Middle Eastern Countries**: Some states may resist the internationalization of
women’s rights issues, particularly in relation to sexual violence, if it conflicts with local norms
or governance models.

**Previous Stands:**
- Italy has supported UN Security Council Resolutions 1325, 1820, and 2467, which focus on
women, peace, and security.
- Italy is a strong advocate of the Rome Statute, the founding document of the ICC, and has
consistently pushed for the prosecution of war crimes, including sexual violence.
- Italy has played a significant role in supporting initiatives to address human trafficking and
sexual exploitation, both in conflict zones and in post-conflict recovery.

**Potential Questions to be Raised on Italy:**

1. **Italy’s Record on Gender-Based Violence at Home**: Italy may be asked about its own
domestic challenges with violence against women and how it reconciles these issues with its
international stance.
- **Response**: Italy acknowledges that there are challenges in addressing domestic violence
but has taken significant steps in recent years, including legislative reforms and awareness
campaigns, to combat gender-based violence within its borders. Italy believes that addressing
these issues at home strengthens its position in advocating for global change.

2. **Italy’s Role in Humanitarian Interventions**: Some delegates may question Italy’s role in
international military interventions, asking if it has ever been complicit in worsening the
situations it claims to address.
 - **Response**: Italy has a long-standing commitment to multilateralism and has acted in line
with international law. In interventions, Italy prioritizes humanitarian aid and the protection of
civilians, particularly women and children, as seen in its operations in Libya and the Balkans.

3. **Italy’s Handling of Migrant and Refugee Crises**: Given Italy’s location as a major point of
entry for migrants into Europe, questions might arise about its handling of refugee women and
their rights in Italy.
- **Response**: Italy has been a leader in advocating for the protection of refugees, especially
women, through partnerships with the UNHCR and other NGOs. Italy is committed to providing
safe spaces, legal protection, and support for female refugees and migrants.

**Questions You Can Raise to Other Countries:**

1. **To Russia**: Given the ongoing reports of sexual violence in Ukraine and Syria, how does
Russia plan to address the alleged crimes committed by its forces, and what steps is it taking to
hold perpetrators accountable?
2. **To China**: How does China propose strengthening international accountability for war
crimes, particularly those against women, and what role does it see for international legal
institutions such as the ICC?
3. **To the US**: Given its involvement in various global conflicts, what specific actions is the
United States taking to ensure that its military operations adhere to international humanitarian
laws, particularly with regard to the protection of women in conflict zones?

**Countries to Target:**
1. **Russia**: Given its ongoing involvement in conflict zones where women have been victims
of violence, especially in Ukraine and Syria, Russia is a key country to hold accountable for its
role in war crimes.
2. **China**: As a major global power with significant influence over international institutions,
China’s position on human rights, especially in the context of conflict, needs to be questioned,
particularly regarding its stance on sexual violence in war.
3. **Middle Eastern States**: Countries with ongoing conflicts such as Yemen, Syria, and
Afghanistan, where women are disproportionately affected by war crimes, should be scrutinized
for their lack of accountability and support for victims.

This approach gives you a comprehensive strategy for engaging in the debate, with clear
stances, strategies for countering questions, and a roadmap for diplomatic action.