Rising Violence Against Women in Conflicts: UN Report

A new report by UN Women reveals a troubling increase in violence against women in conflict zones, with women now accounting for 40% of the 33,443 civilian deaths recorded in armed conflicts in 2023—over 13,377 fatalities, The Guardian reported yesterday.

The report highlights a 50% rise in UN-verified cases of conflict-related sexual violence compared to 2022.

Despite international laws aimed at protecting women and children during war, access to healthcare remains severely compromised. Daily, 500 women and girls die from pregnancy-related complications in conflict-affected areas, with alarming reports from Gaza where many give birth without medical care.

Women constitute less than 10% of negotiators in peace processes, despite evidence that their involvement leads to more durable peace agreements. UN Women’s executive director, Sima Bahous, warns of a “frightening spiral of conflict” and calls for urgent action to address the escalating violence and protect women’s rights.