Sexual Assault

27% of girls and 14% of boys globally report childhood sexual violence.

Sexual violence encompasses acts that range from verbal harassment to forced penetration, and an array of types of coercion, from social pressure and intimidation to physical force. Sexual violence includes any sexual act, attempt to obtain a sexual act, unwanted sexual comments or advances, or acts to traffic or otherwise directed against a person’s sexuality using coercion, by any person regardless of their relationship to the victim.

Evidence suggests that male and female survivors of sexual violence may experience similar mental health, behavioural and social consequences. However, girls and women bear the overwhelming burden of injury and disease from sexual violence and coercion, not only because they comprise the vast majority of victims but also because they are vulnerable to sexual and reproductive health consequences such as unwanted pregnancy, unsafe abortion and a higher risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, during vaginal intercourse. However, it is important to note that men are also vulnerable to HIV in cases of rape.

Sexual Violence Facts – World Health Organization