eThe United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, UNICEF has issued an urgent call for action as reports of sexual violence against children in Sudan continue to rise.
The humanitarian organization warns that the country’s ongoing conflict has placed millions of children at risk, with cases of abuse and sexual exploitation becoming increasingly common, even among children as young as one year old.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell has called the situation dire, as thousands of underage children continue to be exploited.
Disturbing testimonies reveal the harsh reality faced by many young victims, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
Since the beginning of 2024, UNICEF has documented over 220 cases of severe abuse against children, with the majority of victims being young girls; some of the victims are under five years old.
In addition, 77 cases of attempted assaults have been reported, though the true number is believed to be much higher due to fear of stigma and retaliation.
Survivors have shared heartbreaking stories of their experiences. One 16-year-old girl became pregnant after a traumatic attack, while others, like a young girl named Omnia, have spoken about the repeated violence many endure. The physical and emotional scars left by these incidents are deep and long-lasting, affecting victims’ futures and well-being.
The crisis extends beyond direct violence, with worsening security conditions forcing thousands of families to flee their homes. In Darfur, over 3,400 families have been displaced in recent weeks due to intensified fighting, adding to the region’s already dire humanitarian crisis.
UNICEF is calling for urgent international support to protect children and provide them with the necessary medical and psychological care.
Source: WAVN