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The United Nations (UN) has added Israel and Russia to its annual blacklist of parties responsible for conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). The move comes through the UN Secretary-General’s annual report on conflict-related sexual violence, which documents patterns of sexual violence linked to armed conflicts across the world. The development is significant because Hamas had already been included in the list following the October 2023 attacks that triggered the Gaza conflict.

What is Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV)?

Conflict-related sexual violence refers to acts such as:

• Rape
• Sexual slavery
• Forced prostitution
• Forced pregnancy
• Enforced sterilisation
• Other forms of sexual violence directly or indirectly linked to armed conflict

The United Nations recognises CRSV as a grave violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), International Human Rights Law, and, in certain circumstances, a war crime, crime against humanity, or an act constituting genocide.

UN Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Blacklist

The blacklist forms part of the annual report prepared by the United Nations Secretary-General on conflict-related sexual violence. It identifies parties for whom credible information exists indicating patterns of sexual violence during armed conflicts.

Being included on the list does not automatically trigger sanctions, but it carries significant diplomatic and reputational consequences. Repeated offenders may face restrictions affecting participation in UN peacekeeping activities and increased international scrutiny.

Why Were Israel and Russia Listed?

Israel

The UN report verified 31 cases involving Palestinian men, women and children from Gaza and the occupied West Bank between 2023 and 2025. These cases included allegations of sexual violence occurring during detention, interrogation and military operations. Based on verified patterns, Israel was included in the blacklist.

Russia

Russia was listed for conflict-related sexual violence committed in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The report documented incidents attributed to Russian armed and security forces involving sexual violence against civilians and detainees.

Global Scale of the Problem

The latest UN report highlights the continuing prevalence of conflict-related sexual violence across multiple conflict zones.

Key Data and Facts

• The report recorded nearly 10,000 verified cases of conflict-related sexual violence worldwide during the last year.
• The annex to the report lists 77 parties responsible for patterns of conflict-related sexual violence.
• Of these, 62 are non-state actors, demonstrating the growing role of armed groups in perpetrating such violations.
• The blacklist includes state forces, militias, insurgent groups, terrorist organisations and other armed actors operating in conflict zones.