UN Warns of rampant sexual violence targeting women in Sudan
A Sudanese family take shelter at a refugee entry point close to the Chadian border with Sudan (WFP)
July 24, 2024, (NEW YORK) – Following a visit to Chad, UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, issued a stark warning about the widespread sexual violence perpetrated against women and girls fleeing Sudan’s conflict.
From 14 to 18 July 2024, Patten visited Chad, including the Ouaddaï region, where over 620,000 Sudanese refugees have sought shelter, revealing a dire situation for survivors of conflict-related sexual violence.
“I witnessed firsthand the scale of the crisis resulting from the influx of civilians from Sudan, comprised of around 90% women and children,” Patten stated, commending Chad for its generosity in hosting the refugees.
However, she highlighted the harrowing accounts of rape, trafficking, abduction, and ethnically motivated sexual violence shared by survivors.
Patten heard reports implicating the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias in these grave crimes. She emphasized the challenges survivors face in accessing essential services, including legal assistance, justice, and specialized care for trauma.
The lack of security in refugee camps, coupled with the circulation of arms and the presence of armed men, further exposes women and girls to various forms of gender-based violence. Despite efforts by Chadian authorities and international organizations, the urgent needs of affected populations remain largely unmet.
Patten issued an urgent call to the international community for increased funding to support survivors and address the humanitarian crisis in Chad.
“We must respond with unwavering solidarity to conflict-affected populations, including survivors of sexual violence, and must urgently alleviate their suffering,” she declared.