Over 600 Million Women, Girls Affected by War: UN Report Highlights Crisis in Conflict Zones
A recent UN report reveals that over 600 million women and girls are currently affected by war, a staggering 50% increase in just a decade, Arab News reported yesterday.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warns that generational gains in women’s rights are at risk as armed conflict and violence escalate globally. He emphasizes that the transformative potential of women’s leadership in peace processes is being undermined, with decision-making predominantly held by men.
The report indicates alarming trends: the proportion of women killed in armed conflicts doubled in 2023 compared to the previous year, while conflict-related sexual violence cases rose by 50%. Additionally, the number of girls subjected to grave violations in conflicts increased by 35%.
Sima Bahous, head of UN Women, noted that many women in conflict zones, such as Afghanistan and Sudan, feel forgotten amid escalating global crises. Currently, one in two women in these areas faces moderate to severe food insecurity, and 61% of maternal deaths occur in 35 conflict-affected countries.
Despite these challenges, the percentage of women participating in peace negotiations remains stagnant, averaging below 10%. In response, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed announced a “Common Pledge on Women’s Participation in Peace Processes,” urging greater involvement of women in peace efforts.
