UN sounds alarm over rising violence against women in conflict

CAIRO – 24 October 2024: A new report from UN Women has revealed a shocking surge in violence against women in armed conflicts. The data shows that the number of women killed in wars has doubled in 2023 compared to the previous year, accounting for a staggering 40% of all conflict-related deaths.

Additionally, there has been a 50% increase in documented cases of conflict-related sexual violence.

According to the report, the UN recorded at least 33,443 civilian deaths in armed conflicts in 2023, marking a 72% increase from the previous year. Women and children accounted for a disproportionate share of these casualties, with fatalities among women doubling and those among children tripling.

CAIRO – 24 October 2024: The report also highlights the devastating impact of conflict on women's health, particularly in terms of maternal mortality. It states that 500 women and girls die daily in conflict-affected countries due to pregnancy and childbirth complications.

Despite the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 in 2000, which affirmed the importance of women's equal participation in peace processes, women continue to be underrepresented in peace negotiations. In 2023, women accounted for less than 10% of negotiators in over 50 peace processes worldwide.

The report attributes this alarming trend to several factors, including a lack of political will, inadequate funding, and persistent gender stereotypes. The UN has called for urgent action to address this crisis, including increased funding for women's peacebuilding initiatives and greater representation of women in peace processes.