Johannesburg - Hollywood actress and United Nations (UN) ambassador for refugees Angelina Jolie on Friday called on men attending the African Union summit in Johannesburg to intensify efforts to stop the rape of women, especially in conflict-torn areas.
“I am pleading with you as leaders to live up to your promises and beyond. You as men can play a bigger role by arresting and prosecuting perpetrators, allocate funds for survivors of sexual violence and really help root out violence and discrimination in all forms,” she told delegates attending the AU panel discussion on women, peace, and security.
“You can lead on this issue here in Africa. There is no inspiring role model than a man who protects and fights for the rights of women.”
The panel, which included AU chairwoman Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, British politician William Hague, and the UN secretary general’s special representative on sexual violence and conflict, Zainab Bangura, discussed the occurrence of sexual violence against women and girls in conflict areas.
The rape of females by soldiers working in conflict zones was not only happening Africa, but across the world, she said.
“More people are displaced by wars today than after the World War 2. There are 15 million people displaced today due to conflict and half of them are women and girls. Girls are out of school and more vulnerable to rape,” Jolie said.
“It is clear that this is not an African problem, but a global problem.”
Jolie said she was encouraged by African countries that came up with measures to stop the scourge. She added that countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia and the Ivory Coast had plans to stop gender-based violence.
“The crucial thing is whether these plans would be implemented and effected. I plead with you please think about what it would mean if 54 members states here, press together as one for the rights of women…not only for this great continent but for the whole world.”
ANA