Armed conflicts around the world are proving more deadly for women and girls than ever before. According to a United Nations report, one in every four civilians killed in conflicts last year was a woman or girl. This proportion is double that recorded in 2021.
The United Nations has warned that the effects of wars are no longer limited to deaths. Sexual violence, maternal deaths, poverty and the destruction of basic facilities have further increased the difficulties faced by women and girls.
Increase in Deaths
According to the United Nations’ annual report on Women, Peace and Security, more than 37,000 civilians were killed in armed conflicts last year. At least 25 women and girls are losing their lives every day in conflict-affected areas.
The report states that around 750 million women and girls live within 50 kilometres of areas experiencing active conflicts. This figure is 40 million higher than in 2024 and has reached its highest level since 1990.
Addressing the report in New York, UN Women Deputy Executive Director Nyaradzai Gumbonzvanda said that war is becoming more deadly for women and girls.
According to her, war has now become a reality that women cannot ignore. Its effects have reached their homes and daily lives.
Increase in Sexual Violence
According to the report, the United Nations verified 9,788 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in 2025. This figure is more than double that of the previous year and almost four times the number recorded in 2022.
A 163 per cent increase was recorded in reported cases of sexual violence in Haiti. These figures demonstrate the severity of the risks faced by women and girls during conflicts.
The report has also expressed concern over the limited representation of women in peace negotiations. Women bear the devastating consequences of war, but they are not being given adequate space in discussions aimed at resolving conflicts.
Childbirth Also at Risk
The health of women in areas affected by armed conflicts is also under severe pressure. According to the report, pregnant women in such countries face a five times greater risk of dying during childbirth than women in peaceful countries.
The destruction of hospitals and maternity centres in Gaza, along with shortages of essential medical supplies, has further worsened the situation. The report has highlighted a 41 per cent decline in live births and a 300 per cent increase in miscarriages.
The destruction of medical centres affects pregnant women’s and newborn babies’ access to the treatment they need. Under such circumstances, even routine medical care can become a matter of life and death.
Growing Burden of Poverty
According to the United Nations report, around 170 million women and girls live in areas where extreme poverty exists alongside armed conflicts. These women and girls survive on less than three dollars a day.
In conflict-affected countries, women spend five times more time on unpaid care work than men and boys. This includes looking after children and other family members, as well as carrying out everyday household responsibilities.
The impact of war on income, healthcare facilities and access to basic services also increases the economic and social pressure on women.
Growing Risks to Civilians
The report has also expressed concern over the increasing use of drones and long-range weapons in populated areas. Attacks on schools, markets and hospitals have been described as a serious threat to civilian safety.
The figures presented by the United Nations highlight the severity of the human consequences of wars. In addition to deaths, women and girls face sexual violence, shortages of medical facilities, poverty and increasing care responsibilities.
The situation highlighted in the report underscores the importance of women’s effective participation in peace efforts and the protection of civilians during conflicts.
