Post by United Nations Human Rights

Conflict-related sexual violence remains a grave violation of human rights affecting mainly women and girls. For every reported case, an estimated 10–20 go undocumented, a stark reminder of the scale of underreporting. Recent findings point to a rise in documented cases, underscoring the urgency of prevention, protection and accountability. On the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, we honour survivors and stand with those who support them every day — women human rights defenders, community leaders, healthcare providers, humanitarian workers and investigators. Survivors often endure long-lasting physical, psychological and social harm. They must not face additional barriers to be heard, believed, and supported. Even amid conflict, survivors have the right to: 🔹 Access justice and effective remedies 🔹 Comprehensive support, including sexual and reproductive health care and trauma informed services 🔹 Participation in decisions affecting their lives Placing survivors’ rights at the centre is essential to ensure responses that are effective, inclusive and grounded in lived realities. Ending conflict-related sexual violence requires sustained commitment to accountability, survivor-centred approaches and human rights for all.