UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The leaders of 48 nations and 22 UN entities on Thursday signed up to a collective statement to support UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' campaign against sexual exploitation and abuse in the UN system, particularly its peacekeeping operations.

The leaders, members of "the Circle of Leadership," committed themselves to working with Guterres for the implementation of his zero tolerance policy.

"We recognize the need for the consistent and coordinated implementation of policies and approaches to prevent the occurrence of sexual exploitation and abuse across the United Nations system and the ongoing need to ensure accountability for perpetrators," said the statement.

The leaders welcomed the steps taken by the United Nations and member states to enhance the institutional response by actively following up on reports and cases of sexual exploitation and abuse, and pledged to continue to elevate the rights and dignity of victims.

They honored those working under the United Nations flag and condemned the behavior of those who violate and undermine the values of the world organization through their behavior by abusing and exploiting those who are looking to the United Nations for protection.

They leaders encouraged all heads of state or government to join the Circle of Leadership.

"Together, we reaffirm our commitment to make zero tolerance of sexual exploitation and abuse a reality. This is an urgent and moral imperative, as well as an operational necessity to ensure the effectiveness and credibility of the United Nations around the world."

Guterres' campaign was launched a year ago -- during the high-level week of last year's General Assembly. The membership of the Circle of Leadership stands at 69 sitting and former heads of state and government.