The findings published on Tuesday highlight that, despite progress since 2017 in establishing new frameworks, policies, and procedures, sexual exploitation and abuse are still occurring across the UN system. Risks have increased significantly, with a rise in humanitarian crises and reductions in funding, especially in high-risk and complex contexts where the UN operates. In 2023, 758 allegations were reported, compared to 534 the previous year and 265 in 2018. Over half of these allegations, 384, were related to UN staff and affiliated personnel, with the rest involving personnel from partners and non-UN military forces not under UN authority.
A hundred allegations were reported in peacekeeping and special political missions, with 143 identified victims, including 115 adults and 28 children. The majority of allegations, 90%, were related to the UN mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and another in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). The report also highlights ongoing prevention efforts, including the implementation of the UN Secretary-General’s strategy to improve responses to sexual exploitation and abuse. This approach focuses on the rights and needs of victims while intensifying efforts to uphold those rights, end impunity, and engage with Member States to resolve paternity claims.
The Secretary-General’s Special Coordinator on improving the UN’s response to sexual exploitation and abuse, Christian Saunders, has commissioned a comprehensive assessment to better integrate prevention efforts into all UN activities and programs. The assessment will propose a strategy to ensure sustainable and effective prevention work across the UN system, along with options for predictable and adequate resourcing at headquarters and in the field. Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized in a video message that sexual exploitation and abuse violate the core values of the United Nations, underscoring the need for all staff to work together to eradicate these behaviors, support victims, and hold perpetrators and enablers accountable.
The report underscores the importance of continuing prevention efforts and upholding the rights of victims while striving to end impunity within the UN system. By engaging with Member States and intensifying efforts to support victims and hold perpetrators accountable, the UN aims to eradicate sexual exploitation and abuse from its work. Secretary-General Guterres has emphasized the need for collective action to address these violations and ensure a safe and respectful environment for all individuals involved in UN activities and programs.
As the UN continues to address sexual exploitation and abuse within its system, ongoing efforts are focused on implementing prevention strategies, responding to allegations, and holding perpetrators accountable. By strengthening frameworks, policies, and procedures, the UN aims to create a culture of respect and accountability that prioritizes the rights and needs of victims while working to end impunity. Through collaboration with Member States and comprehensive assessments, the UN is committed to eradicating sexual exploitation and abuse, upholding its core values, and supporting a safe and inclusive environment for all involved in UN activities.
