23 May 1986

19th plenary meeting

Physical violence against detained women that is specific to their sex

The Economic and Social Council,

Noting with grave concern that the Commission on the Status of Women, in the report on its thirty-first session, drew attention to the continuing pattern of physical violence against women, cases of rape and other sexual abuse, including violence against pregnant women, while detained,

Considering that women are especially vulnerable to sexual violence,

Considering also that pregnant women require special protection and care by society,

Recalling its resolutions 76 (V) of 5 August 1947, 304 I (XI) of 14 and 17 July 1950 and 1984/19 of 24 May 1984,

Recalling also its resolutions 1980/39 of 2 May 1980 and 1983/27 of 26 May 1983, by which it reaffirmed the mandate of the Commission to consider communications relating to the status of women, including the replies of Governments thereon, if any, and to draw to the attention of the Council emerging trends and patterns so that it may decide what action to take,

Taking note of the consideration of the report of the Secretary-General on this question by the Commission at its thirty-first session,

1. Takes note of the report of the Secretary-General and expresses its thanks to all Member States that contributed to it;

2. Calls upon all Member States that have not yet done so to take appropriate measures urgently, as necessary, to eradicate acts of physical violence against detained women;

3. Invites Member States that have not yet done so to submit to the Secretary-General a report on legislative and other measures they have taken, as applicable, to prevent physical violence against detained women that is specific to their sex, so as to enable him to report to the Commission on the Status of Women at its 1988 session;

4. Requests the Secretary-General to submit a report to the Commission prepared on the basis of reports received from Member States;

5. Requests the Commission to continue to consider communications relating to the status of women and to make recommendations thereon to the Council, if necessary.