Six Groups Fight Sexual Exploitation in Gaza Aid
Six human rights and humanitarian organisations, including the Palestinian Center for Women's Issues and the UNRWA, are tackling cases of sexual exploitation linked to humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip. The issue has escalated since the recent conflict began.
The UNRWA's Protection from Sexual Exploitation initiative has registered 18 accusations of sexual abuse tied to aid in Gaza last year. Four Palestinian psychologists have treated numerous women who were pressured for sex in exchange for assistance. A 35-year-old widow received inappropriate phone calls after giving her number to a man in a UNRWA uniform, while a 38-year-old mother was lured by promises of a job with an aid agency but faced demands for sexual favours instead. Many victims remain silent due to fear of disbelief or social stigma. Sexual exploitation is a common byproduct of humanitarian disasters, with an increase in cases reported in Gaza.
The rise in sexual exploitation cases since the start of the current war in Gaza is a grave concern. Six organisations are actively addressing this issue, but more needs to be done to protect vulnerable women and ensure perpetrators are held accountable.
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