Darfur Women and Girls
Violence against women in Darfur is widespread. Since February 2003, armed actors in Darfur, including Sudanese government forces, the pro-government Janjawid militia and rebel groups, have used rape, displacement, and mass murder as weapons of war. Women and girls, especially those who have been displaced from their communities, have been subject to acts of sexual violence and other brutal assaults. Many women and girls that survive this violence suffer long-term mental and physical illness, social stigmatization and significant economic hardship.
Rising insecurity in the region now threatens to further escalate the human rights and humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Darfur and eastern Chad.
Reports:
'No one to help them'. Rape extends from Darfur into eastern Chad report
December 07, 2006
Surviving Rape in Darfur
August 08, 2004
Darfur: Rape as a weapon of war: sexual violence and its consequences
July 18, 2004
Rape as a weapon of war
July 18, 2004
What are the greatest threats facing women and girls in the Darfur region?
Since February 2003, the Sudanese government and the government sponsored Janjawid militia have used rape, forced displacement, abductions, and mass murder as weapons of war. Women and children are often driven from their homes with few or no possessions.
How many refugees and internally displaced people are women and girls?
Today, of the 2.5 million Darfuri civilians that are displaced and living in refugee camps, Chad and the Central African Republic, around 80% are women and girls.
Are women and girls safe in refugee camps?
Amnesty International is concerned for the safety of all Darfuri and eastern Chadian civilians. Women and girls are most at risk when they leave the camps in search firewood and water. Chances are high that they will be subjected to acts of sexual violence and other brutal assaults by Janjawid militia.
Is anyone mandated to protect women and girls in the Darfur region from violence?
The only real protection being provided for Darfuri women and girls has been provided by the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS), but its numbers, resources and mandate have been severely limited.
Are there services available for women and girls who have been raped or sexually assaulted?
Most victims of rape and sexual assault do not have access to medical care and other services. However, aid agencies provide some medical and psychological help to survivors of rape in Darfur.
What role does the ICC play in combating violence against women?
The ICC statute marks the first time in history that serious crimes of violence against women – including rape, enforced prostitution, forced pregnancy, forced sterilization, sexual slavery, trafficking, and gender-based persecution – have been recognized as crimes against humanity and war crimes.
