Shocking UNICEF Report: Babies as Young as One Raped in Sudan War
Additionally, Reuters highlighted an alarming rate of the sexual violence; 16 of these survivors are under the age of five, including four one-year-olds.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a harrowing revelation, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has reported that over 200 children, some as young as one year old, have been subjected to rape amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
This disturbing trend underscores the severe risks faced by children in war-torn regions and highlights the urgent need for international intervention.
The report suggested that since the conflict's escalation in April 2023, Sudan has witnessed widespread violence between the national army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
UNICEF reported that this power struggle has not only led to massive displacement and humanitarian crises but has also seen the emergence of sexual violence as a tactic of war.
According to Associated Press (AP), UNICEF's recent data reveals that 221 cases of child rape have been documented since the beginning of 2024, with victims including both girls and boys.
Additionally, Reuters highlighted an alarming rate of the sexual violence; 16 of these survivors are under the age of five, including four one-year-olds.
The actual number of cases is believed to be significantly higher, as many survivors and their families are reluctant to come forward due to stigma, fear of retribution, and limited access to support services. Catherine Russell, UNICEF's Executive Director, expressed profound concern, stating, "Children as young as one being raped by armed men should shock anyone to their core and compel immediate action." She emphasized that such acts are "an abhorrent violation of international law and could constitute a war crime."
AP’s investigation has revealed that the conflict has devastated Sudan, resulting in the deaths of at least 20,000 people and displacing over 14 million.
The humanitarian situation is dire, with famine reported in certain regions. The use of sexual violence, particularly against children, adds a horrifying dimension to the crisis. Reports indicate that armed men have forcibly entered homes, committing rapes in front of family members, further traumatizing communities.
The international community has reacted with alarm. Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, "We are receiving shocking reports of sexual violence against women and girls, including rape." He stressed the necessity of holding perpetrators accountable and providing adequate support to survivors.
UNICEF, in collaboration with partners, is actively working to address the crisis by establishing safe spaces for survivors, integrating gender-based violence services into health centers, and deploying trained professionals to offer medical and psychosocial support. However, the scale of the crisis necessitates a more robust international response to protect vulnerable populations and ensure that such atrocities are halted.
The situation in Sudan serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact of armed conflict on children. The global community must prioritize the protection of children in conflict zones, ensuring that perpetrators of such heinous acts are brought to justice and that survivors receive the comprehensive support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
