Global Crisis: The Persistent Scourge of Violence Against Women

A staggering number of women globally have endured sexual violence as children, and many continue to face intimate partner violence, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. This violence leads to severe health issues, underscoring the urgent need for preventive strategies and support services.

A recent report in The Lancet highlights the alarming prevalence of sexual and intimate partner violence against women globally. Over a billion women have encountered sexual violence in childhood, and 608 million have faced intimate partner violence in 2023 alone.

The report finds the highest rates of violence in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, regions also burdened with high HIV rates and chronic conditions, exacerbating the health impacts. In India, intimate partner violence affects 23% of women over 15, with even higher rates of sexual violence experienced during childhood.

Researchers from the Global Burden of Disease Study stress the dire health consequences of this violence, linking it to mental health disorders and chronic illnesses. They call for stronger legal protections, gender equality, and survivor support systems to mitigate this global crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)