A new UN report reveals that women accounted for 40% of deaths in war zones in 2023. Conflict-related violence is rising, leaving women increasingly vulnerable.
Women Face Rising Casualties in War Zones, UN Report Finds
The United Nations has revealed alarming data: women now account for 40% of deaths in conflict zones worldwide. This figure, published in a recent report by UN Women, shows a significant rise in the toll war is taking on women’s lives.
Rising Violence Against Women in War Zones
The report paints a disturbing picture. According to UN Women, the number of women killed in war zones doubled in 2023. Conflicts around the globe led to at least 33,443 civilian deaths, with women comprising 13,377 of these deaths. This means four out of every 10 civilians killed in conflict were women.
Increase in Conflict-Related Sexual Violence
The report also noted a troubling rise in sexual violence. Verified cases of conflict-related sexual violence surged by 50% in 2023 compared to the previous year. In many war-torn areas, victims of sexual violence, especially in places like Sudan, cannot access medical care or emergency contraception. In many cases, laws have prevented them from receiving critical care such as abortion services.
A Health Crisis for Women in Conflict Zones
Healthcare access for women in conflict zones is severely lacking. UN Women reports that 500 women and girls in these areas die every day from pregnancy and childbirth complications. In Gaza alone, 180 women give birth daily, often without essential medical care. The lack of healthcare infrastructure is exacerbating this crisis, leaving countless women vulnerable.
A Call for Change in Peace Processes
Women remain largely excluded from peace negotiations. In 2023, they accounted for less than 10% of peace negotiators. This gap persists even though peace processes are shown to be more durable when women are involved. UN Women’s Executive Director, Sima Bahous, emphasized that women continue to “pay the price of the wars of men,” stressing the urgent need for more female representation in peace efforts.
Urgent Need for Accountability and Gender Equality
This report arrives 24 years after the UN Security Council passed Resolution 1325, which called for the protection of women and girls in conflict zones and their participation in peace processes. Bahous highlighted the dangers of ignoring gender equality, warning that peace will remain elusive without addressing these issues.