Kuwait’s PM affirmed diplomatic neutrality at the Munich Security Conference. UNICEF reported serious sexual violence against children in Sudan, with 16 victims under five among 221 cases documented. The organization emphasized the need for accountability and highlighted the systemic use of sexual violence as a weapon in the ongoing conflict.
Kuwait’s Prime Minister has reiterated the country’s commitment to diplomatic neutrality while leading a delegation at the Munich Security Conference. In recent reports, the UN children’s agency UNICEF has revealed alarming statistics regarding sexual violence against children in Sudan amidst the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
UNICEF indicated that, out of 221 cases of sexual violence involving children recorded since the beginning of last year, 16 victims were under the age of five, including four infants. Approximately one-third of reported victims were male. This data, derived from Sudanese groups assisting survivors, likely underrepresents the true extent of such incidents due to stigma and fear of retaliation.
Some survivors have reported severe consequences, including pregnancy resulting from these assaults, which has led to rejection from family members and added hardships. A survivor’s harrowing experience included being forced to witness the abuse of another child, highlighting the brutality faced by victims in captivity.
UNICEF has refrained from attributing blame for these instances of child rape, urging both conflicting parties to adhere to international laws. The RSF and the army have not provided comments in response to inquiries related to these matters.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized that the rape of very young children should provoke a profound sense of indignation and urge immediate action. The conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023 due to a power struggle prior to a planned transition towards civilian governance, has resulted in widespread humanitarian crises.
A UN fact-finding mission described occurrences of sexual abuse as staggering, asserting that most known cases have involved the RSF and allied forces, particularly in areas controlled by the army where reporting is even more challenging. Reports have surfaced regarding women experiencing ethnically motivated gang rapes by RSF and allied militias.
UN human rights chief Volker Turk noted last week that over half of reported rape cases in Sudan have been classified as gang rapes, further indicating that sexual violence is being systematically utilized as a weapon in the conflict. The RSF has announced intentions to investigate these claims and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
In conclusion, the revelations surrounding sexual violence against children in Sudan during the ongoing war highlight a severe violation of human rights. UNICEF’s data emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and protective measures for the most vulnerable populations. As the conflict continues, it is imperative for international bodies to take decisive action to uphold the rights of children and prevent further atrocities. The international community must respond to these shocking findings with immediate and comprehensive interventions.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
