The UAE has urged the UN Security Council to address conflict-related sexual violence in Sudan as a key factor for sanctions. During a briefing, UAE representative Mohamed Abushahab highlighted the humanitarian crisis and called for international pressure on warring factions to negotiate and allow humanitarian aid access. UNICEF noted an 80% increase in the risk of sexual assault, emphasizing the need for accountability and support for survivors.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has urged the United Nations Security Council to recognize conflict-related sexual violence as a critical factor for sanctions in Sudan. Mohamed Abushahab, the UAE’s permanent representative, emphasized the alarming report of 221 verified cases of such violence, including incidents involving children under one year of age. This plea comes amidst a dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which has displaced over 12 million individuals since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023.
During the Security Council Briefing on Sudan, Mr. Abushahab called for increased international pressure on the leaders of Sudan’s warring factions, specifically the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). He stressed the necessity for these parties to engage in negotiations and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the conflict.
Catherine Russell, the Executive Director of UNICEF, reported that the risk of sexual assault has surged by 80% in the past year, affecting women, girls, and increasingly men and boys. Mr. Abushahab condemned all forms of sexual violence, advocating for accountability for perpetrators and the provision of essential care for survivors, including mental health support.
Moreover, the UAE representative highlighted the urgent need for the RSF and SAF to permit unobstructed access to humanitarian assistance. He insisted on the importance of political discussions to achieve a permanent end to hostilities, emphasizing the pivotal role of the international community in this process.
In conclusion, the UAE has made a significant plea to the United Nations for recognizing sexual violence in conflict as a key factor in Sudan’s sanctions regime. Amidst a humanitarian crisis, the need for political negotiations and humanitarian assistance remains critical. The rising reports of sexual violence underscore the urgency of international actions to hold perpetrators accountable and offer support to victims.
Original Source: www.arnnewscentre.ae
