A young mother from Yemen endured severe physical abuse at the hands of her partner, highlighting a global crisis affecting nearly one in three women worldwide. Approximately 840 million women have faced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner since 2000, a figure that has barely declined over the past two decades, with an annual reduction of just 0.2 per cent. In the past year alone, 11 per cent of women aged 15 and older, around 316 million, experienced such violence.
A new report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other UN agencies emphasizes that violence against women remains one of humanity’s oldest and most pervasive injustices, yet it continues to be critically underfunded and insufficiently addressed. The study covers data from 168 countries between 2000 and 2023 and, for the first time, includes national and regional estimates of sexual violence by non-partners, such as male relatives or friends. Findings indicate that 263 million women have experienced non-partner sexual violence since age 15, though experts warn these figures are significantly under-reported due to stigma and fear.
Despite evidence-based prevention strategies, funding remains extremely low. In 2022, only 0.2 per cent of global development aid supported programmes to prevent violence against women, with funding continuing to decline even as humanitarian emergencies, inequality, and other risks endanger millions more. Violence often begins early, with 12.5 million girls aged 15–19 subjected to physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner in the last year alone. Children frequently witness abuse in their homes, perpetuating cycles of violence.
The report, released ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls on 25 November, calls for urgent government action, investment in prevention programmes, and strengthened health, legal, and social services for survivors. Countries are urged to improve data systems, enforce protective laws, and ensure that women and girls, particularly those at highest risk, are empowered to exercise their rights. UN leaders stress that ending violence against women is essential for dignity, equality, and human rights.
Salma, the young mother from Yemen, was eventually released to her parents and supported by UNFPA safe spaces, where she learned about her rights. She has resumed her education and aspires to become a doctor. Her story exemplifies the resilience of survivors and underscores the urgent need for coordinated global action to protect women and girls and enable them to achieve their full potential.
