Monrovia, Nov. 18 -- A group of Liberian women and girls has formally petitioned the United Nations Office in Liberia, calling for international intervention amid what they describe as a worsening crisis of sexual violence and a breakdown in justice for victims.

The petition, addressed to the UN Resident Coordinator on Monday, was presented on behalf of women, girls, and survivors across the country by Juren Korlu Morlu, who said the appeal reflects growing fear and frustration over alleged failures by the government to prosecute sexual abuse cases, particularly those involving individuals with political influence.

According to the petitioners, young girls are increasingly vulnerable to sexual abuse, while efforts to seek redress throug...