Documentation of 330 Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Cases in Sudan

UN experts have documented 330 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in Sudan so far this year, though they believe the actual number is much higher due to underreporting.

The human rights experts pointed out that survivors of sexual violence, including children, face immense barriers in accessing medical or psychological care.

They noted that there are increasing reports of enforced disappearances of women and girls in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), where many have been abducted for the purposes of sexual slavery and exploitation.

The experts added, “Girls are being taken from displacement sites, shelters, and markets amid the collapse of protection systems. The deteriorating situation in RSF-controlled areas has exposed women and girls to escalating sexual violence.”

UN experts condemned the widespread violations against women and girls in Sudan, including sexual violence, abduction, and killings. They also highlighted the growing risks of gang rape, sexual slavery, human trafficking, and forced marriage—especially in Al Jazirah, Sennar, Darfur, and South Kordofan.

The experts confirmed that some women have taken their own lives in villages such as Al-Sareeha, Al-Azraq, and Rufaa in Al Jazirah State following traumatic assaults.

Rape remains a deeply stigmatized crime in Sudanese society due to its association with family honor, leading some victims to flee their families or commit suicide to escape the shame.