UNICEF Report Reveals Alarming Global Rates of Childhood Sexual Violence
One in eight girls worldwide suffer sexual violence before age 18, highlighting a pervasive human rights crisis.
- UNICEF's report estimates that over 370 million girls and women have experienced rape or sexual assault before turning 18.
- When including non-contact forms of sexual violence, the number of affected girls and women rises to 650 million globally.
- Boys and men are also affected, with estimates suggesting 240 to 310 million have faced sexual violence in childhood.
- Regions with the highest prevalence include Oceania and sub-Saharan Africa, with significant rates also found in conflict zones.
- The report calls for urgent global action to change societal norms and strengthen laws to protect children from sexual violence.