Sexual violence: definition, forms, impacts, law, and responses

Forms and characteristics

Common categories include:

• Sexual assault and rape: forced or non-consensual intercourse or sexual acts.
• Sexual coercion: pressure, manipulation or threats to obtain sexual activity.
• Sexual harassment: unwelcome sexual comments, advances or conduct, often occurring at work or school.
• Exploitation and trafficking: forcing another person into sexual activity for profit or control.
• Child sexual abuse: sexual activity involving a child, who cannot legally give consent.

Who is affected and risk factors

While prevalence estimates vary, women and girls report higher rates of sexual violence in most studies; men, boys and people across the gender spectrum are also victims. Certain groups face increased risk, including children, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, migrants and those in conflict zones. Risk factors operate at many levels: individual (substance use, prior victimization), relational (domestic violence), community (unequal gender norms) and societal (weak legal protection).

Consequences and immediate needs

Sexual violence can cause physical injuries, unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, as well as long-term psychological harm such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety. Survivors may experience social stigma, economic hardship and disruption of education or work. Immediate priorities after an assault include ensuring safety, seeking medical care (including prophylaxis where appropriate), documenting injuries, and accessing confidential counseling and legal advice.

Law, history and public recognition

Legal definitions and penalties vary by country, but modern law increasingly emphasizes consent and recognizes sexual violence as a serious crime. International law and human-rights bodies treat rape and systematic sexual assault in conflict as war crimes and crimes against humanity. Public awareness has grown through social movements and research, which have expanded prevention efforts and survivor-centered services.

Prevention, support and myths

Prevention combines education about consent, bystander intervention training, safe workplace and school policies, and community programs that challenge harmful gender norms. Effective responses prioritize the survivor: informed consent for medical/forensic procedures, trauma-informed counseling, confidentiality, and legal support. Common myths—such as that most assaults are committed by strangers or that victims provoke assault—harm survivors and hinder reporting.

For further information and local resources, consult official guidance and support organizations. See definitions and guidance and support and resources to find referral services, hotlines and legal information in your area.