The Renew Europe Group condemns the mass sexual violence in Sudan, particularly against children and women, urging the EU to adopt sanctions against violators. UNICEF reports significant risks to 12.1 million individuals, with notable cases of child rape. The group calls for humanitarian aid and accountability for war crimes, emphasizing that Europe must respond to the ongoing crisis.
The Renew Europe Group in the European Parliament has issued a strong condemnation of the mass sexual violence being employed as a weapon in the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This nearly two-year conflict poses particularly high risks to women and children, prompting a call for specific measures and sanctions against those responsible for egregious human rights violations.
UNICEF reports that about 12.1 million individuals are at risk of gender-based violence, with 221 documented cases of child rape reported since last year, including 16 victims under the age of five. Such harrowing statistics underscore the urgency of the humanitarian crisis.
In light of these findings, the Renew Europe Group has requested an urgent resolution concerning the dire political and humanitarian situation in Sudan. This resolution advocates for support of the International Criminal Court’s investigation into genocide and war crimes in Darfur, increased humanitarian aid for Sudan and neighboring nations, and funding for survivors of sexual violence.
All parties involved in the conflict are compelled to facilitate safe and unimpeded access for humanitarian organizations, including the World Food Programme, to assist the two-thirds of Sudan’s population in danger. MEP Hilde Vautmans, the Renew Europe Group’s coordinator for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the need for a robust European response to the situation.
She stated, “Sexual violence shatters the very foundations of a society and reduces a country—entire generations—to ruins.” Vautmans expressed frustration at Europe’s historical inaction, urging the EU to take responsibility, enforce sanctions on war criminals, and advocate for a ceasefire to protect vulnerable populations from sexual violence.
The Renew Europe Group’s resolution highlights the urgent need for international intervention to address the mass atrocities in Sudan, particularly against children and women. It calls for increased humanitarian support, sanctions against violators, and the enforcement of arms embargoes to alleviate the humanitarian crisis. The statements made by MEP Hilde Vautmans stress the gravity of the situation and the imperative for Europe to act decisively.
Original Source: www.reneweuropegroup.eu
