In light of the urgent need to protect girls’ rights and empowerment on International Day of the Girl Child 2024, which is observed today, new statistics show an increase in sexual violence against girls, especially in Pakistan where they continue to face barriers to safety, healthcare, and education.
Estimates from Unicef indicate that more than 370 million women and girls have experienced sexual assault or rape before becoming 18 years old, highlighting the critical need for action.
The scope of sexual violence against children globally, particularly against teenage girls, was revealed by the first-ever global and regional assessments. These violations frequently have long-lasting effects.
The number of girls and women impacted increases to when “non-contact” forms of sexual violence, like verbal or internet harassment, are taken into account.
