GNV News, October 25, 2024

According to a report released by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on October 9, 2024, more than 370 million girls and women—nearly one in eight—have experienced rape or sexual assault before turning 18. Sexual violence against children occurs in all regions of the world, and when “non-contact” sexual violence such as online or verbal abuse is included, the number of affected girls and women reaches 650 million worldwide—one in five. This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive prevention and support strategies to address all forms of violence and abuse. Sexual violence is even more severe in fragile settings. The report states that in areas of conflict or political instability, one in four girls face rape or sexual assault.

UN Women also revealed in its October 2024 report that 2 billion women worldwide lack access to social protection and face poverty. This situation is particularly pronounced in low-income countries. Together, the two reports highlight widening gender disparities and the fact that women are more likely to be placed in vulnerable positions.

Learn more about women’s sexual and reproductive rights → “Sex and reproduction: Can women decide for themselves?”

Learn more about discrimination against women and media coverage → “International reporting on discrimination against women”

International conference to end sexual violence in conflict (Photo: Foreign and Commonwealth Office / Wikimedia Commons [Open Government Licence])