Rising Violence Against Women and Girls

Violence against women and girls in Sierra Leone has surpassed the capacity of existing preventive and responsive mechanisms. In 2023, the Sierra Leone police crime statistics recorded 30,491 cases of crime. Violence against women and girls ranked highest, at 10,063. Between 2022 and 2023, a total of 21,679 cases were reported, yet fewer than 8 percent (739 cases) were prosecuted (Sierra Leone Police Crime Statistics Report, 2024). The absence of a forensic lab for DNA testing further limits justice for survivors.

Additionally, 60.8% of women report experiencing intimate partner violence. Thousands more cases go unreported due to widespread culture of silence, stigma and social exclusion.

In schools, 42% of girls report harassment or assault, with 30% of reported rape cases linked to educational settings. Teachers are often the primary perpetrators, using coercion to demand sex from girls in exchange for grades, gifts, or money.

Harmful cultural practices, including as child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM) remain major drivers of violence and early sexual initiation. Sierra Leone has the 19th highest child marriage rate globally.

Lack of justice and support services for survivors:

Less than 15% of survivors access justice through the courts. The judicial and healthcare systems, and social services remain inaccessible, particularly in rural areas, leaving many survivors without critical support.

 Economic Hardship Among Survivors:
Survivors and caregivers of family violence lose essential household income and family support when seeking justice, deepening poverty and vulnerability. This economic hardship perpetuates the cycle of dependence, marginalization, and exposure to further violence.