• UNICEF said the war in Sudan is resulting in the rape of children. At least 221 cases, 66% of which are girls, have been reported since the beginning of 2024.
• Those numbers are just a glimpse because many survivors, especially the 33% of victims who are boys, are too scared to report their assault due to stigma and cultural taboos.
• The prevalence of sexual assault against children in conflict-ridden areas of Sudan is twice as high as in other parts of the world.

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UNICEF released a report giving the world a glimpse into the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Since 2023, the war has ravaged the population, forcing many to come face to face with the violence. However, in a recent report, UNICEF said according to first-hand accounts, children are enduring some of the worst of that violence.

UNICEF report shows sexual violence used as war tactic

The analysis reveals that both factions in the war –– the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces –– are committing abuse and human rights violations.

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Armed men in Sudan are using sexual violence as a tactic of war, with the United Nations reporting at least 221 cases of rape, including victims as young as 1-year-old, since the beginning of 2024.

The U.N. report reveals 66% of the survivors are girls, while 33% are boys. Providers determined at least 16 of the victims were under the age of 5. However, many cases likely go unreported due to fear of stigma or a lack of access to authorities, according to the analysis.

The prevalence of sexual assault against children in conflict-ridden areas of Sudan is twice as high as in other parts of the world.

Catherine Russell, executive director of UNICEF, called on all parties involved in the conflict to take immediate action to stop these violations.

“The parties to the conflict, and those with influence on them, must make every effort to put an end to these grave violations against children. These scars of war are immeasurable and long-lasting,” Russell said.

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War leads to humanitarian crisis

The report also highlights the violence extends beyond the actions of armed members. The ongoing conflict has made women and children more vulnerable to exploitation, with some being coerced into providing sexual services in exchange for shelter or food.

Over the last two years, 11 million people have been displaced by the war, while tens of thousands have reportedly been killed.

Sudan is also experiencing a humanitarian crisis as widespread famine grips the country. Reports show half of the population is facing starvation and acute malnutrition.