The European Union imposed sanctions on individuals and entities it deemed responsible for sexual violence and violations of women’s rights in 6 countries: Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Myanmar, in a symbolic and unprecedented step on the eve of International Women’s Day.
“By imposing these penalties, we are sending a clear message to the perpetrators that they will be punished for their crimes,” Dutch Foreign Minister Wobke Hoekstra said.
He added, “These horrific and inhumane crimes have consequences. It is also a message to the victims: the European Union will support you wherever you are in the world.”
