When a conflict occurs, sexual violence increases and women and girls are often the first victims. Today, conflict-related sexual violence is on the rise, with more than 4,600 cases documented in 2024, reports Pramila Patten, Special Representative of the UN Action Against Sexual Violence in Conflict, in her address to the United Nations Security Council. That is 25% more cases than in 2023 and there could be more as sexual violence is often under-reported. “If we are serious about peace, we mus