A groundbreaking report released today by UNICEF reveals that more than 370 million girls and women worldwide—approximately one in eight—have experienced rape or sexual assault before reaching adulthood. The findings underscore a global crisis that disproportionately affects young girls, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where an alarming 79 million girls have been subjected to such violence.
The report, which marks the first comprehensive assessment of its kind, highlights the pervasive nature of sexual violence against children across all geographic, cultural, and economic boundaries. In fragile settings—areas plagued by conflict and instability—the incidence of sexual violence is especially high. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell stated, "Sexual violence against children is a stain on our moral conscience. It inflicts deep and lasting trauma, often by someone the child knows and trusts."
Approximately 370 million girls and women have faced sexual violence before age 18, equating to one in eight.
This region has the highest number of victims, with 79 million affected. The prevalence of sexual violence here is exacerbated by ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises.
When including non-contact forms of sexual violence—such as online harassment and verbal abuse—the number rises to an estimated 650 million, or one in five girls.
The report indicates that between 240 million to 310 million boys experience rape or sexual assault during their childhoods, highlighting that this issue transcends gender.
UNICEF urges governments, communities, and organizations worldwide to prioritize the protection of children from sexual violence. This includes implementing effective prevention strategies, enhancing support services for survivors, and fostering educational environments where children can thrive free from fear.
Nankali Maksud, a specialist in child violence at UNICEF in Nairobi, Kenya, expressed her concern about the long-term implications of such trauma on young girls' education and well-being. "It's terrifying. It is generations of trauma," she said.
As part of its commitment to addressing this crisis, UNICEF will continue to advocate for policies that protect children from violence and ensure access to necessary support services for survivors.