A recent report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has documented a significant increase in reports of violence against women and girls in Gaza, including early and forced marriage. The crisis in Gaza, which has been ongoing for several years, has created conditions where women and girls face increased risks of gender-based violence. According to the report, 10 organizations collected data that showed a sharp rise in early and forced marriage cases during the second quarter of this year.
The UNFPA report highlights that the prolonged conflict in Gaza has led to the collapse of social structures, leaving many women and girls vulnerable to violence. In some cases, families have agreed to marry off their daughters to avoid shame and stigma. One woman in a Gaza displacement camp reported that victims of rape are often married off to their perpetrators to avoid scandal. These marriages often involve girls as young as 12-17 years old.
The report also notes that the absence of functional courts has left many mothers without access to child support. Furthermore, with many schools closed, thousands of children have been out of education for almost three years. This has led to a situation where many girls are at risk of early marriage, with some families viewing it as a way to protect their daughters.
According to UNFPA representative Nestor Omohangi, the indicators are "shocking," and the situation in Gaza has deteriorated to the point where "everything has eroded... and there is no system in place." The report also notes that poverty and hunger remain high, with many people relying on charity.
The UNFPA report is based on research conducted in late 2025 and early 2026, which included interviews with 230 women in displacement camps. The report highlights the specific risks faced by girls who have lost their parents during the conflict. In some cases, families have married off their daughters as young as 14 or 15 years old to alleviate financial burdens.
The report also notes that many girls who have been married early have experienced domestic violence and have become pregnant. According to the Palestinian Center for Women's Affairs, which cooperates with UNFPA, these girls often face serious health risks, including complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
The UNFPA report concludes that the situation in Gaza requires urgent attention to address the crisis of violence against women and girls. The agency is working to provide support to affected families and to raise awareness about the risks of early and forced marriage. Key points:
Key points
- UNFPA reports sharp rise in early and forced marriage cases in Gaza.
- 123% increase in early and forced marriage cases in Q2 2026 compared to Q1.
- Ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza exacerbate risks of gender-based violence.
