UNICEF reports that 16 million children in Sudan suffer from the civil war, facing violence, starvation, and disease. Over 1.3 million children are in famine hotspots, with ongoing risks of sexual assault. UNICEF requires $1 billion for support, urging global intervention for these vulnerable populations.
Catherine Russell, the executive director of UNICEF, reported that 16 million children in Sudan are experiencing severe hardships due to the ongoing civil war. These children live amidst threats of violence, starvation, disease, and sexual assault as the conflict ravages their communities, impacting schools and hospitals across Sudan.
Children under five are particularly vulnerable, with over 1.3 million in famine hotspots and an additional 3 million facing health risks from diseases such as cholera and malaria due to a crumbling health system. With at least 16.5 million children out of school, the need for urgent assistance is critical.
Russell highlighted a distressing report of 221 cases of child rape last year, with two-thirds being girls. Alarmingly, 16 cases involved children under five, including four infants. She emphasized that the trauma inflicted upon these children extends beyond the conflict, necessitating ongoing care and support for their healing and recovery.
The head of Doctors Without Borders (MSF), Christopher Lockyear, underscored the prevalence of sexual violence among survivors treated by their teams, reporting 385 cases last year, with many victims being young children. He revealed that a significant number were assaulted while working in fields, illustrating the targeted violence against women and girls.
The conflict, fueled by a power struggle between two rival generals, has extended from Khartoum into the Darfur region, with both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces accused of gross human rights violations. Lockyear recounted witnessing violent scenes of devastation and suffering in hospitals during a visit to Sudan.
He emphasized that despite calls for peace from the international community, civilians continue to endure violence, be bombed, besieged, and deprived of basic necessities such as food and medical care. The situation in Sudan, according to Lockyear, is dire and requires constant attention from the global community.
UNICEF has requested one billion dollars this year to provide essential support to 8.7 million children, focusing on nutrition, water, sanitation, protection, health, and education. Both Russell and Lockyear urged the U.N. Security Council to advocate for removing restrictions hindering the delivery of humanitarian aid.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan is devastating for millions of children, who suffer from violence, disease, and starvation. The disturbing statistics regarding sexual violence against minors highlight the urgent need for intervention and support. Deep-rooted trauma requires long-term care, and both UNICEF and MSF’s calls for action emphasize the international community’s responsibility to alleviate the suffering of these vulnerable populations and ensure their well-being.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
