A report from the United Nations agency for gender equality reveals that the number of women and girls who have lost their lives in the Gaza conflict has surpassed 38,000. Sofia Calltorp, Head of the agency’s Humanitarian Action, informed journalists in Geneva that the total figure includes at least 22,000 women and 16,000 girls, translating to an average of 47 women and girls killed daily.
Calltorp emphasized that those who died were mothers, sisters, and friends, deeply loved by their families, and noted that deaths have continued in recent months despite calls for a ceasefire.
The data also indicates that approximately 11,000 women and girls have been injured, with many sustaining life-altering disabilities. UN Women estimates the actual number to be potentially higher due to numerous bodies trapped under rubble. According to Gaza health authorities, over 72,315 Palestinians have died and 172,137 have been injured in the Gaza Strip since October 2023.
This situation has created a chronic humanitarian emergency, with many families now headed by women who face increasing economic hardship and risks to their safety.
Families Striving to Stay Together
Even six months after the initial ceasefire in Gaza began last October, women and girls continue to face severe and persistent risks, with critical humanitarian needs and fragile conditions for recovery.
Ms. Calltorp from UN Women stated, “This war has reshaped families. Tens of thousands of households are now headed by women. After losing their husbands, they are supporting their families without income, support, or access to basic services.”
Furthermore, Ms. Calltorp highlighted, “There is a complete lack of most services,” emphasizing an urgent need for “essential items,” including access to sexual and reproductive health and sanitary pads. She recalled visiting Gaza in November and meeting two women who had to give birth on the street due to a lack of transportation to reach functioning hospitals.
UN Women is calling for a full ceasefire, adherence to international law, and increased humanitarian aid, stressing that women and girls must be central to recovery and peacebuilding efforts.
The agency continues its work in Gaza in partnership with women-led and women’s rights organizations.
Together with the UN system, aid partners, and women’s organizations, UN Women is working to ensure all women and girls can access life-saving assistance and that women’s organizations are funded and represented in decision-making and reconstruction processes.
