WHO Reveals 840 Million Women In The World Face Sexual Violence

Illustration of sexual violence. (pexels)

JAKARTA - Violence against women is still one of the most persistent human rights crises in the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that nearly 1 in 3 women or an estimated 840 million women had experienced sexual violence during their lives.

This figure has barely changed since 2000. In the last 12 months alone, 316 million women, 11 percent of whom are 15 years old, have been subjected to physical or sexual violence by intimate partners.

"Violence against women is one of the oldest and most widespread injustices among mankind, however, it is still one of the least followed up," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, quoted from the WHO's official website, Friday, November 21, 2025.

The WHO report with UN partners also includes national and regional estimates of sexual violence against women, apart from partners. It was found that 263 million women had experienced non-pair sexual violence since the age of 15.

Women who experience sexual violence will face unwanted pregnancies, a higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, and depression. Therefore, this problem must be addressed immediately.

"Ensuring this violence is not just a matter of policy, it is a matter of dignity, equality, and human rights," he said.

Sexual and reproductive health services are an important entry point for survivors to receive the high-quality care they need. For this reason, the government of each country is expected to handle sexual violence against women following the WHO recommendations.

- Improve evidence-based prevention programs Strengthening health, law and social services centered on survivors-Investing in data systems to track progress and reach groups that are most at risk- Enforcing laws and policies that empower women and girls

Empowering women and girls is not an option, it is a prerequisite for peace, development and health. A safer world for women is a better world for everyone," Tedros concluded.