Executive Summary
This brief reports on publicly documented incidents of conflict-related sexual violence globally in August 2026, highlighting 2,398 incidents recorded since January 2020. It details cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and other regions, often involving state forces or armed groups. The report emphasizes the underreporting of such violence and its severe impact on civilians in conflict zones.
Why It Matters
This document provides critical insights into the ongoing use of sexual violence by state and non-state actors in conflict zones, which is a significant indicator of instability, human rights abuses, and the broader impact of warfare on civilian populations.
Key Takeaways
- At least 2,398 publicly reported incidents of conflict-related sexual violence were recorded globally between January 2020 and July 2026.
Source evidence · PDF page 1
Since the start of Insecurity Insight’s Reporting Sexual Violence monitoring in January 2020 and July 2026, at least 2,398 publicly reported incidents of conflict-related sexual violence have been recorded.
- In August 2026, significant incidents of sexual violence were reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with alleged perpetrators including FARDC personnel, Wazalendo members, RDF, and M23 forces.
Source evidence · PDF page 1
During August 2026, reports documented sexual violence against women and girls across North Kivu and Kwilu provinces, including rape allegedly committed by FARDC personnel and suspected Wazalendo members.
- Conflict-related sexual violence also occurred in Cameroon, Sudan (allegedly by RSF members), and Haiti, often targeting women and children in volatile regions.
Source evidence · PDF page 2
As reported on 25 August 2026: In North and South Kivu provinces, the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) and their AFC/M23 auxiliaries were accused of serious human rights violations in the territories under their control including; summary executions, massacres, sexual violence, torture, abductions, forced recruitment and illegal taxation.
Strategic Relevance
The systematic reporting of conflict-related sexual violence highlights severe human rights violations and the breakdown of civilian protection in conflict zones, impacting regional stability and international humanitarian efforts. Understanding these patterns is crucial for assessing the conduct of armed groups and state forces, informing policy responses, and addressing accountability gaps in areas of conflict.