A report by Statistics Canada revealed a "significant increase" in rates of sexual misconduct within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) last year.

According to the report issued today, Tuesday, titled "Sexual Misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces, 2022" - nearly 1960 regular force members, about 3.5 percent, "reported that they experienced sexual assault in the military workplace or outside the workplace in an incident involving the CAF or other military members in the 12 months preceding the survey."

This number rises from 1.7 percent in 2016, and 1.6 percent in 2018, when previous surveys were conducted, according to Statistics Canada.

The report also indicates that cases of sexual assault were more prevalent among women (7.5%) compared to men (2.8%), which "aligns with previous findings," and represents an increase for both.

The survey collects data on cases of "sexual assaults, unwanted sexual touching, and sexual activity where the victim could not consent."

Chief of Defence Staff General Wayne Eyre wrote in a statement on Tuesday: “The Canadian Armed Forces is committed to eliminating all forms of misconduct, including sexual misconduct,” "and today's results from the survey on sexual misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces show that although we have made progress in some areas, there is still work to be done."

He added: "We will continue to listen to our members and their life experiences, and ensure they receive the support and necessary services if they need them or when they need them."