Rape And Sexual Violence Allegations In Ukraine Must Be Investigated, UN Says

There are increasing reports of rape and sexual violence being used against women and children in Ukraine, the executive director of UN Women said Monday, adding the allegations must be investigated.

“The risk of human trafficking is increasing as the situation becomes more desperate,” Bahous added. “Young women and unaccompanied teenagers are at a particular risk.”

Her remarks followed a visit to Moldova, which she said had welcomed an estimated 95,000 Ukrainian refugees, while “thousands more” have transited through the country. She noted that those arriving were largely women, children and the elderly.

Bahous called for increased resources for police forces at the border between Moldova and Ukraine “so that they can ensure support to victims of gender-based violence and trafficking.”

“Gender-sensitive and survivor-centered response must be at the heart of all humanitarian action,” Bahous said.