UN reports sharp rise in sexual violence used as weapon of war
Nearly 10,000 cases of conflict-related sexual violence were recorded globally in 2025, according to the United Nations. Pramila Patten, the UN’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, described this as a dramatic increase, overwhelmingly affecting women and girls. The UN report highlights the extreme brutality of these acts, with many incidents going unreported. The organization is urging stronger prevention, accountability, and survivor support.
What we know
- Pramila Patten warned that nearly 10,000 verified cases of conflict-related sexual violence were recorded worldwide in 2025.
- The UN’s annual report verified 9,788 cases across 21 conflict-affected countries but noted the actual number is likely much higher.
- Abuses included rape, gang rape, sexual slavery, forced marriage, trafficking, and abductions by both State and non-State actors.
- Victims ranged from children as young as one year old to adults up to 70, including persons with disabilities and LGBTQI+ individuals.
- The UN is calling for strengthened prevention, accountability, and survivor-centred responses, urging Member States and the Security Council to take action.
