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Human rights

Sudan Conflict: Widespread Human Rights Abuses and Violence Against Civilians

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the Sudan conflict grinds on, civilians are bearing the brunt of the violence. The latest report by the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) to the UN Human Rights Council documents widespread war crimes and human rights abuses committed by both the Sudanese army (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia. Civilians are being targeted for their real or perceived affiliation with the opposing side, and systematic human rights abuses have left many communities in a state of horror.

Key Takeaways:

  • Both the SAF and RSF have directed large-scale attacks against civilians and vital infrastructure, including medical centers, constituting serious violations of international law.
  • Civilians are being targeted for their real or perceived affiliation with the opposing side, leading to widespread human rights abuses.
  • Executions, torture, and rape have become a daily horror for many communities in Sudan, with the RSF intentionally directing attacks against non-Arab communities.
  • Over 12.1 million people have fallen victim to forced displacement as of July, with the UNHCR calling it the world's fastest-growing displacement crisis.
  • Women and girls are particularly vulnerable, with many reporting sexual assault and facing significant obstacles in accessing psychological or medical support.
  • Humanitarian workers are at risk, with over 84 Sudanese humanitarian workers killed or arbitrarily detained between the start of the war in April 2023 and April this year.
  • Humanitarian aid continues to be delayed or obstructed, with the FFM investigating a drone attack against a joint World Food Programme and UNICEF convoy in June.

Statistics:

  • 12.1 million people have fallen victim to forced displacement as of July.
  • Over 84 Sudanese humanitarian workers were killed or arbitrarily detained between the start of the war in April 2023 and April this year.
  • Five humanitarian workers were killed in a drone attack against a joint World Food Programme and UNICEF convoy in June.
  • The Sudan conflict has led to a significant increase in violence against women, with many reporting sexual assault.

Sources:

  • UN News Service
  • UN Human Rights Council
  • Independent International Fact-Finding Mission (FFM)
  • UNHCR
  • World Food Programme
  • UNICEF
  • AllAfrica Global Media (allafrica.com)

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