Sudan has been at war since mid-April 2023, causing mass displacement of over 9 million people. As the humanitarian crisis continues to deteriorate, United Nations experts have expressed grave concern over the increasing reports of trafficking in persons, especially women and girls, for purposes of sexual exploitation and sexual slavery, child and forced marriage, and the recruitment of boys for participation in hostilities as chiid soldiers.
by Kevin Seraaj, OrlandoAdvocate.com
The experts’ report, released on March 23, 2024, highlights the alarming situation in the war-torn country: women and girls being sold at slave markets in areas controlled by Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and other armed groups, including in North Darfur. This is a clear violation of human rights and a serious crime that must be addressed immediately.
The report also expressed concerns about the rise in child, early and forced marriage, which is reportedly a result of family separation and gender-based violence. The ongoing conflict has made it difficult for humanitarian organizations to provide support to victims and survivors, as their offices and response spaces have been looted or destroyed. This has severely limited their capacity to deliver much-needed aid to the affected population.
In addition, the recruitment of children by armed groups as child soldiers has escalated dramatically, including the taking of children from neighboring countries. This is a gross violation of human rights and a violation of international humanitarian law. The experts have called for investigation of these violations, as required by international law. Those responsible must be held accountable, the Report says.
The closure of the UN Mission in Sudan has also had a significant impact on the situation. With ongoing violence and insecurity, experts are concerned about the lack of protection for at-risk populations, particularly women, children, refugees, and internally displaced persons. The closure of the mission has also made it difficult for humanitarian, civil society, and aid agencies to operate and access areas affected by the conflict.
The Report urges the Sudanese authorities and RSF representatives to take immediate action to address this issue. It is time to put an end to the suffering of the people of Sudan and ensure their safety and well-being.
