The escalating conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that erupted in April 2023 is having a heavy toll on civilians and continues to decimate the country.
The conflict has been particularly devastating for Sudanese women and girls. This report shows that the RSF have carried out widespread conflict-related sexual violence, including rape, gang rape and sexual slavery across towns and villages in Sudan to humiliate, assert control, and to forcefully displace families and communities. The report is based on interviews with 30 people, including 16 survivors of sexual violence, five relatives of survivors, and five human rights investigators who are closely monitoring the Sudan conflict, among others.
These violations amount to war crimes and possible crimes against humanity.
Survivors of sexual violence have suffered both physical injuries and psychological trauma. It is also difficult for them to access health facilities and the police because of the fighting and for fear of stigmatization and reprisals. Survivors demand justice and accountability, and urgent access to medical treatment, care and protection from further violations.
The international response to the suffering of Sudanese women and girls has been reprehensible. It is time for Sudan’s international and regional partners to put more pressure on the warring parties to end sexual violence, ensure justice accountability and provide support mechanisms for survivors of sexual violence, including comprehensive sexual and reproductive health.