With war raging across the world, children and adolescents are increasingly being exposed to conflict-related sexual violence amid growing displacement, family separations, weakened protection systems and the systematic use of rape as a weapon of war.
Adolescent girls are at heightened risk of sexual violence – including exploitation, forced marriage and trafficking – which can derail childhoods and cause long-lasting damage, from physical injuries to pregnancy, trauma and social stigma.
While verified reports confirm conflict-related sexual violence against children is escalating, significant data gaps due to underreporting and barriers to accessing care shroud the true extent of these crimes, including cases against boys.
In light of this, the theme for the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict this year is “Conflict-related sexual violence against children: Safeguarding futures and empowering caregivers.”
All survivors of sexual violence in conflict must be at the centre of every response – and all perpetrators must be held accountable. Conflict-related sexual violence is never inevitable or excusable; it is a grave violation of international law and human rights.
Survivors, caregivers and affected communities have a right to participate in decisions on policies and programmes to counter sexual violence and to expect justice. Perpetrators must be investigated and prosecuted; ending impunity is the only way to stop the cycles of violence from continuing.
Addressing sexual violence in conflict calls for global solidarity together with local action specific to protecting children and adolescents, providing age-appropriate services that safeguard their lives and futures. Since stigma and discrimination cause additional harm, communities must stand with survivors and their caregivers, urging acceptance, inclusion and protection.
“Sexual violence perpetrated against children and adolescents in conflict robs them of their rights and dignity,” says UNFPA Executive Director Ms. Diene Keita. “We must act now to prevent these atrocities and support survivors – and their caregivers – with comprehensive protection and services, wherever these crimes occur.”
