Translated with AI
Independent United Nations experts have called for those implicated in the so-called "Epstein dossier" to be held accountable. They say the findings reveal ongoing violence against women under patriarchal systems of power, the UN press service reports.
Human rights activists have expressed serious concern about credible allegations of systemic trafficking of young women and girls for sexual exploitation and called for a comprehensive and transparent investigation.
According to the statement, the allegations implicate high-ranking politicians, public figures, diplomats, business representatives, and academics. Experts described the materials presented as shocking evidence of trafficking in girls and young women that may have continued for decades.
Serious shortcomings in preventing such crimes have also been noted. Experts have pointed to the inability of relevant authorities to promptly identify and protect victims, and to hold perpetrators accountable.
They say the continued existence of a large-scale global human trafficking network, involving prominent figures, demonstrates the deep-rooted nature of discrimination and violence against women.
Human rights activists emphasized that those involved in the exploitation and abuse of children must be held accountable. They recalled that the lives of countless women and girls have been devastated, and today, many victims are uniting to demand justice.
Experts also said the response of states and law enforcement agencies remains insufficient and does not correspond to the gravity of the alleged crimes and the suffering of the victims.
It is particularly emphasized that impunity contributes to the further spread of such crimes and causes serious harm to women and girls.
The experts recalled that states are obligated under international law to prevent human trafficking, identify victims, provide them with assistance and protection.
Furthermore, there has been a decline in international attention to this problem. Therefore, authorities in various countries are called upon to ensure victims have access to legal protection, medical and psychosocial support, and compensation.
The statement emphasizes that the lack of accountability in cases of gender-based violence and human trafficking reflects and reinforces structural discrimination prohibited by international law.
Experts called on states to move from discussion of the problem to concrete action, emphasizing that the obligation to respond to such crimes should have been fulfilled long ago.
The statement was delivered by the Special Rapporteur on human trafficking, Siobhan Mullaly, and members of the Working Group on Discrimination against Women and Girls. These experts are part of the special procedures system and are appointed by the Human Rights Council. They are not UN staff and do not receive remuneration for their work.
