UN Reports 25% Surge in Sexual Violence in 2024

UN Reports 25% Surge in Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones in 2024
UN report reveals a 25% rise in sexual violence in conflict zones in 2024, affecting over 4,600 survivors. Learn more at AMERICA NEWS WORLD.

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In 2024, sexual violence in conflict zones spiked by 25%, says a new UN report. Over 4,600 survivors faced horrific abuses, used as tools of war, torture, and terror. The report, released on August 14, 2025, shows a grim reality in places like the Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Somalia, and South Sudan. Both state and non-state groups committed these crimes in 21 countries. Women and girls made up 92% of victims, but men, boys, and diverse groups were also targeted, with ages ranging from one to 75.
For example, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, nearly 800 cases of rape and sexual slavery were recorded. In Sudan, 221 cases involved children as young as one. These numbers are likely underreported, as stigma and lack of access to help silence many survivors. “These figures don’t show the full scale of these crimes,” said Pramila Patten, UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict.
Moreover, detention centers have become hotspots for abuse. Sexual violence is often used to humiliate and extract information, especially from men and boys. Non-state groups, like Hamas, listed for abuses during the October 7, 2023 attacks, use these acts to control territories and spread fear. In Libya, groups like the Deterrence Agency for Combating Organized Crime and Terrorism (DACOT) were newly listed for similar crimes.
Meanwhile, Israel and Russia were put “on notice” for potential future listing due to concerns over their forces’ actions in detention settings. The UN calls for stronger accountability and better access for aid. However, destroyed healthcare facilities and attacks on aid workers make it hard for survivors to get help. Many miss the critical 72-hour window for treatments like HIV prevention.
Therefore, the UN urges all parties to issue clear orders against sexual violence and ensure justice. “We owe survivors dignity and action,” Patten said. The report lists 63 groups, including Résistance pour un Etat de Droit (RED) Tabara in the DRC, for mass rape incidents. Yet, compliance with international laws remains low.
For more details, visit AMERICA NEWS WORLD for updates on global human rights issues. The UN’s findings align with reports from UN News, highlighting the need for global action.
Data Snapshot: Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones (2024)

Region
Verified Cases
Key Notes

Central African Republic
413
Rape, gang rape, forced marriage reported

Democratic Republic of Congo
799
Highest case count, extreme violence

Haiti
300+
Gang-related abuses prevalent

Somalia
200+
Ongoing conflict fuels violence

South Sudan
200+
Food insecurity increases risks

Source: UN Secretary-General’s Report (S/2025/389)

To stay informed, check AMERICA NEWS WORLD for the latest global news. The UN’s report pushes for sanctions and funding for survivor support, like the Multi-Partner Trust Fund. Despite challenges, some groups have committed to change, but more action is needed.
Thus, the fight against sexual violence in conflicts continues. Visit AMERICA NEWS WORLD to learn how global efforts are addressing this crisis. Survivors need more than sympathy—they need justice and healing.