HRW accuses RSF of widespread sexual violence against women and girls in South Sudan, documenting cases of gang rape and sexual slavery in South Kordofan. These findings paint a grim picture of the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, which has led to significant casualties and displacement.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allied militias of perpetrating extensive sexual violence against women and girls in southern Sudan. This report highlights cases of sexual violence, including gang rape and sexual slavery, documented in South Kordofan state, involving victims aged from seven to 50. The findings contribute to a broader narrative of humanitarian crisis amidst the ongoing 20-month conflict in Sudan.
The allegations follow a previous report detailing various abuses by the RSF against ethnic Nuba civilians, deemed as war crimes due to their severe nature and unreported prevalence. In light of these findings, the United Nations Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan emphasized the large-scale sexual violence committed by both parties in the conflict. Yet, the RSF has disputed these claims, dismissing them as unfounded and claiming that any reported violations were perpetrated by other groups post their interventions.
The ongoing conflict, which began in April 2023, has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread displacement. Meanwhile, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), a rebel faction, remains active in parts of South Kordofan, opposing both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces. HRW reports chilling accounts from survivors of sexual violence, illustrating horrific conditions under which these violations occurred, reinforcing the calls for urgent international action to safeguard civilians and ensure accountability for the abuses.
The allegations of sexual violence in South Sudan arise amidst a severe humanitarian crisis fueled by a protracted conflict involving various factions, including the Sudanese Armed Forces and paramilitary groups such as the RSF. This multi-faceted conflict has engendered widespread violations of human rights, leading to extensive displacement and loss of life, necessitating international scrutiny and intervention. HRW’s findings are particularly critical in shedding light on the pattern of sexual violence, which has emerged as a significant aspect of the conflict, fuelling calls for actions to protect at-risk populations.
In summary, Human Rights Watch has brought to light alarming evidence of widespread sexual violence against women and girls in South Sudan attributed to the RSF and its allies. The severity of these violations, characterized as war crimes, underscores the dire humanitarian situation in the region, necessitating immediate and effective international intervention. The ongoing conflict not only highlights the urgent need for protective measures for civilians but also emphasizes accountability for those responsible for such heinous acts.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
