UNICEF reports grave instances of sexual violence against children under five in Sudan, highlighting that of 221 documented cases, 16 victims were under five. Many survivors face stigma and additional hardships, with alarming indications that sexual violence is used as a weapon of war. The RSF has pledged to investigate allegations, yet challenges in reporting and accountability persist.
The Prime Minister of Kuwait emphasizes the nation’s commitment to diplomatic neutrality while leading a delegation to the Munich Security Conference. Meanwhile, UNICEF reports alarming cases of sexual violence against children under five amidst the violence in Sudan. The organization has compiled a database through local support groups, revealing that out of 221 documented cases of sexual violence involving children, 16 victims were younger than five, including four one-year-olds. Approximately one-third of those affected were male, indicating the widespread nature of this crisis.
Aid organizations and rights groups express concern that the reported figures reflect only a small segment of the actual incidents. Many survivors experience barriers to reporting due to stigma, fear, and lack of access to medical care. In some devastating accounts, survivors cited being ostracized by their families after becoming pregnant due to the assaults. One survivor recounted the horrifying conditions in captivity, stating, “After nine at night, someone opens the door, carrying a whip, selects one of the girls, and takes her to another room. I could hear the little girl crying and screaming. They only release these girls at dawn, and they return almost unconscious.”
UNICEF has refrained from naming perpetrators of the reported child rapes but urges all involved parties to adhere to international law. A UN fact-finding mission has noted a staggering prevalence of sexual abuse, with the majority of incidents attributed to the RSF and its affiliates. Difficulties in reporting incidents persist in areas controlled by the army, exacerbating the crisis. Women have reported gang rapes in targeted assaults by RSF and allied forces. UN human rights chief Volker Turk revealed that more than half of documented rape cases in Sudan were gang rapes, highlighting the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war.
The RSF has expressed intentions to investigate allegations and bring perpetrators to justice, yet the situation remains dire as UNICEF calls for immediate global action to address this humanitarian catastrophe.
In summary, the ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to tragic instances of sexual violence, particularly affecting vulnerable children. UNICEF’s findings illustrate the horrific reality survivors face, including stigma and family rejection. The alarming prevalence of sexual abuse, especially gang rapes, signals a critical need for international intervention and adherence to humanitarian laws. The commitment to investigate these crimes is a necessary step, yet it must be met with substantive actions to protect the afflicted populations.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
