Renew Europe has condemned the use of mass sexual violence as a weapon in Sudan’s conflict, calling for action to support investigations into war crimes and increase humanitarian aid. UNICEF reports that 12.1 million people are at risk of gender-based violence, with many cases involving children. MEP Hilde Vautmans emphasizes that Europe must act decisively to protect women and children from further atrocities.
Renew Europe has expressed strong condemnation of the mass sexual violence perpetrated as a tactic of war during the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The urgency resolution proposed by the group emphasizes the heightened risk faced by women and children, necessitating immediate action. MEPs have called upon the European Union and Member States to support ongoing investigations by the International Criminal Court into genocide and war crimes in regions like Darfur, alongside increasing humanitarian assistance to Sudan and its neighboring areas.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) indicates that approximately 12.1 million individuals in Sudan are at risk of gender-based violence. Disturbingly, there have been 221 reported cases of child rape since the previous year, with 16 victims who are younger than five years of age. Given this alarming statistic, all involved parties must guarantee safe and timely access for humanitarian organizations, including the World Food Programme, as two-thirds of Sudan’s population faces severe risk.
Hilde Vautmans, Member of the European Parliament, articulates Europe’s historical negligence towards Sudan’s plight, stating, “For far too long, Europe has looked away from what is happening in Sudan.” She advocates for immediate action to secure a ceasefire, suggesting that Europe should impose sanctions against war criminals and extend the UN arms embargo throughout the country to safeguard women and children from sexual violence.
In conclusion, the conflict in Sudan presents a dire humanitarian crisis, particularly for women and children who are subjected to atrocities such as sexual violence. The calls for action by Renew Europe and MEPs highlight the urgent need for international investigation, increased humanitarian aid, and the enforcement of sanctions against perpetrators. The situation demands the immediate and sustained attention of the global community to ensure the safety and rights of vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.aldeparty.eu
