Shocking report on Gaza – what is happening to women and children

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has published a report documenting a sharp increase in early and forced marriages in the Gaza Strip. In the second quarter of 2026, the number of such cases surged by 123%. Adolescent girls aged 12–17 are the most vulnerable. Cases have been recorded of girls being married off in exchange for food and of victims of violence being forced to marry their rapists.

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has published a report documenting a catastrophic rise in early and forced marriages in the Gaza Strip. According to data from September 2026, the number of registered cases in the second quarter jumped by 123% compared to the beginning of the year. Adolescent girls aged 12 to 17 are the most vulnerable. Experts link this to the destruction of social structures, total poverty, and food shortages. The report, based on interviews with female residents of displacement camps in Khan Younis and Gaza, presents shocking testimonies. Cases have been recorded of fourteen-year-old girls being married off in exchange for a couple of bags of flour. Also widespread is the practice of forcing victims of sexual violence to marry their own rapists to avoid public shame. The situation of orphans remains particularly dire, as guardians rush to marry them off to relieve themselves of the burden of support. Women report cases of extortion of sexual services in exchange for tents, humanitarian aid, or medical support. The article cites UNFPA data and eyewitness accounts.