Global Humanitarian Aid Cuts Impact Sexual Violence Victims

Significant cuts in global humanitarian aid have left sexual violence victims in conflict areas without necessary assistance, leading to the closure of clinics and shelters, a senior UN official reported on Tuesday.

Pramila Patten, the UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict, criticized the UN Security Council and the broader international community for neglecting essential services for survivors when they are most crucial.

Her remarks came as she presented UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' annual report, which highlighted a 25% increase in sexual violence cases last year, primarily in regions like the Central African Republic, Congo, Haiti, Somalia, and South Sudan.

(With inputs from agencies.)