The Impact of the Sudanese Civil War on Women: A Call for Action and Support
The conflict in Sudan has resulted in over 15,000 deaths and displaced more than 8.2 million people since April 2023. Systematic sexual violence against women and girls has increased dramatically, requiring urgent international response and support. The UN has called for specific measures to protect women and advance their participation in peace negotiations. Recent steps taken by the African Union mark progress, but consistent efforts are necessary to address ongoing crises and ensure the empowerment of women in Sudan.
Since April 15, 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a violent power struggle between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), resulting in over 15,000 fatalities and displacing more than 8.2 million individuals. The conflict, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan ‘Hemedti’ Dagalo, has fostered widespread humanitarian crises and fears of potential refugee influx into Europe as calls for international assistance grow.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan is now the largest displacement crisis globally, with nearly 2 million refugees fleeing to neighboring countries. The United Nations reports that a staggering 25 million people are in dire need of humanitarian aid, with escalating food insecurity leading to what is deemed the greatest hunger crisis worldwide. Without resolution, the conflict continues to inflict immense suffering on the civilian population.
Sudan’s conflict is rooted in a complex historical backdrop characterized by colonial influences and internal divisions. The Anglo-Egyptian Condominium, which lasted until Sudan’s independence in 1956, left the nation with a regional disparity—between the wealthier and predominantly Arab Muslim north and the impoverished, predominantly black Christian south—leading to persistent civil wars.
The second civil war, which lasted from 1983 to 2005, concluded with South Sudan’s secession in 2011 and saw a death toll of approximately two million. The dictatorship of Omar al-Bashir, who ruled from 1989 to 2019, has been marked by the brutal suppression of dissent and ongoing conflicts, including the genocidal war in Darfur.
The plight of women and girls in the context of this conflict is severe. Over 12 million people are exposed to systemic sexual violence, employed as a tactic to instill terror among the populace. Reports indicate an alarming 80% increase in women and girls facing the threat of sexual assault in the past year, primarily perpetrated by the RSF but also involving the SAF.
The consequences of this conflict extend to survivors, who not only suffer trauma but also face significant barriers to justice, healthcare, and support networks. The stigma surrounding sexual violence further isolates them from their community, contributing to a broader mental health crisis among women displaced by the war. Enhanced support systems and safe environments are imperative to facilitate recovery and the rebuilding of their lives.
In a recent positive development, the African Union adopted the Convention on Ending Violence against Women and Girls, signaling progress. However, the UN emphasizes the necessity for additional nations to ratify this convention.
To safeguard women and girls in Sudan, the UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission has outlined essential recommendations: to end the use of sexual violence, to bolster women’s participation in peace processes, and to ensure cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC) for accountability in crimes against women.
These recommendations aim to address the pressing issues of sexual violence and political marginalization faced by women in Sudan. Prioritizing the voices and experiences of Sudanese women is critical to advancing sustainable peace and initiating systemic reforms that honor their resilience and courage in the face of unimaginable atrocities.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has resulted in a profound humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and countless lives lost. The systematic use of sexual violence against women highlights the urgent need for international intervention and support. With recommended actions from the UN, there is potential for significant change; however, the realization of these initiatives will require unwavering commitment to prioritize the safety and empowerment of women in Sudan. Ultimately, achieving lasting peace will necessitate centering the voices of Sudanese women in all discussions and decision-making processes.
Original Source: theowp.org
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