UNICEF warns that over 12 million individuals in Sudan are at risk of sexual violence as conflict continues. The number of at-risk individuals, including increasing numbers of men and boys, has risen by 80% in the past year. Reports of grave violations against children are rising, prompting calls for renewed international action to protect civilians.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reported that over 12 million individuals in Sudan are at risk of sexual violence amid the ongoing conflict. During a recent UN Security Council meeting, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell noted that the number of women, girls, and increasingly men and boys susceptible to rape and sexual assault has surged by 80 percent in the past year.
In 2024 alone, UNICEF recorded 221 reported rape cases involving children across nine states, including alarming instances where some victims were infants. Russell emphasized that the data likely represents only a fraction of the widespread crisis due to survivors’ fears of social stigma and retribution, which hinder their willingness to seek help.
The humanitarian crisis in Sudan has escalated significantly since fighting began between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in April 2023. The ongoing violence has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 12 million people, marking it as one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.
In the period from June to December 2024, there were over 900 reported violations against children, with a distressing 80 percent involving cases of fatal or severe injuries, particularly in Khartoum, Al Jazirah, and Darfur. Recent events highlight continued civilian suffering, with the RSF accused of targeting civilians in North Darfur, leading to further casualties among children and women.
Christopher Lockyear, the Secretary-General of Doctors Without Borders (MSF), criticized both warring factions for failing to protect civilians adequately, describing the situation as a “war on people”. He additionally condemned the UN Security Council’s ceasefire calls as ineffective and hollow, stating that while statements are made, civilians face ongoing violence and deprivation.
MSF has halted all operations in the famine-stricken Zamzam refugee camp, reflecting the dire conditions on the ground. In response, Sudan’s UN Ambassador asserted the government’s commitment to civilian protection but faced criticism from Lockyear, who urged for a new international approach to ensure the safety of civilians in Sudan.
UNICEF’s alarming report highlights the severe risk of sexual violence in Sudan, exacerbated by ongoing conflict. With significant increases in reported cases of violence against women and children, it is essential to address the humanitarian crisis that affects millions. Calls for ceasefires have been criticized for lacking substance, and further international commitment is crucial to protect civilians in this war-torn region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
