US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton praised the UN Security Council for unanimously adopting a resolution to end sexual violence against women and children in conflict-related situations.

Chairing the meeting, Ms. Clinton said protecting the lives and security of women is especially important in conflict zones.

"Even though women and children are rarely responsible for initiating armed conflict, they are often war's most vulnerable and violated victims. The resolution we passed today represents a step forward in our global efforts to end violence perpetrated against women and children in conflict zones."

The Secretary of State says despite the passage of UN resolutions on the issue, violence against women and girls in conflict areas has not diminished and has in some instances increased. Ms. Clinton says the failure of the international community to adequately address the problem erodes the collective effectiveness of the UN and jeopardizes its legitimacy.