Protection
Mogadishu, June 19, 2024 (Xinhua/NAN) The United Nations in Somalia has called for greater protection for healthcare professionals and humanitarian workers who provide critical services to survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in the country.
In a statement issued to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict that falls on Wednesday, the UN said attacks against healthcare and humanitarian workers are on the rise in Somalia.
James Swan, the UN secretary-general’s acting special representative for Somalia, said although many of these incidents go underreported but women and girls in the country continue to be exposed to many forms of sexual violence.
“The sexual violence are higher in the areas affected most by conflict and insecurity.
“As the health professionals operate in those areas, they often risk their own lives,” Swan said in a statement in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.
According to the World Health Organisation’s surveillance system in Somalia, at least 10 healthcare workers were injured in attacks launched by non-state actors on healthcare facilities between January 2023 and May 31, 2024.
It added that the figures are believed to be significantly underreported.
“I pay tribute to the health workers who assist survivors in the aftermath of rape and other forms of sexual violence.
“And I call for enhanced protection of all those who dispense critical care to those in need,” Swan added.
Since 2015, the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict has been observed annually on June 19.
The event marks the UN Security Council’s adoption of a resolution recognising sexual violence as a weapon of war and a threat to international peace and security. (www.nannews.ng)
UMD/EAL
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Edited by Ummul Idris/Ekemini Ladejobi
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