Survivors Speak Out on Sexual Violence in West Darfur

Survivors of Sexual Violence in Sudan’s West Darfur

Report by Human Rights Watch

Introduction

Nusra and Khadija, cousins living in the small town of West Darfur, share a bond as survivors of sexual violence in the conflict in Sudan. This report documents their experiences, along with dozens of other survivors, and highlights the urgent need for action to address these atrocities.

Background

The conflict in Sudan’s West Darfur has resulted in numerous human rights abuses committed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied Arab militia. While previous reports have focused on the killing of men, little attention has been given to the targeting of women and girls for sexual violence.

Rights monitors have reported dozens of cases of rape in El Geneina between May and late June. This is part of a long history of sexual violence against women and girls in Sudan during armed conflict, which has never been adequately addressed.

Nusra and Khadija’s Testimonies

Nusra and Khadija, both in their twenties, shared their traumatic experiences with Human Rights Watch. They were raped three weeks apart when RSF fighters and Arab militiamen conducted house-to-house searches in the Massalit neighborhoods of El Geneina. Nusra described how she was threatened with a gun before being raped.

Limited Support for Survivors

Survivors of sexual violence in West Darfur face significant challenges in accessing emergency support and healthcare due to the widespread attacks on health facilities. Nusra and Khadija, now living in a makeshift settlement in eastern Chad, struggle with physical, mental, and emotional scars. Khadija, a single parent of three, expressed her need for reproductive care.

Call for Action

The United Nations Security Council is urged to respond urgently to the armed conflict in Sudan and address sexual violence in conflict. The council should impose sanctions on the commanders responsible for the rape of Khadija and Nusra. Donors are also called upon to provide more resources to ensure survivors receive comprehensive care and support.

Conclusion

The physical and mental burden faced by survivors like Nusra and Khadija cannot be ignored any longer. Immediate action is needed to address sexual violence in Sudan’s West Darfur and provide meaningful support to survivors.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article:

• SDG 5: Gender Equality
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

2. Specific Targets under Those SDGs Based on the Article’s Content:

• SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in public and private spheres
• SDG 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere
• SDG 3.7: Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services, including for family planning, information, and education, and the integration of reproductive health into national strategies and programs

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article:

• Number of reported cases of sexual violence against women and girls in conflict-affected areas (Indicator for SDG 5.2)
• Number of survivors accessing emergency support and time-sensitive treatments (Indicator for SDG 16.1)
• Availability and accessibility of reproductive care services for survivors in crisis situations (Indicator for SDG 3.7)

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: hrw.org

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