Continued Conflict in Sudan Prolongs Major Threat of Sexual Violence : Analysis

Sudanese activists and humanitarian workers have revealed that sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) was already a prevalent issue in Sudan before the recent conflict began in April. At a conference in Cairo, they discussed their experiences working on the ground and the obstacles they face in addressing SGBV. The Combatting Violence Against Women Unit has recorded cases that are likely less than 3 percent of the actual figures, highlighting the difficulty in accurately documenting the extent of the problem. SGBV is a recurring phenomenon in situations of violent conflict, but the lack of civilian protection in Sudan has led to an almost unimaginable rate of SGBV.

Women and girls who are victims of SGBV in Sudan are often kept by their abusers for days following the assault to prevent them from accessing medical care. This also forces them to carry pregnancies resulting from rape. Non-Arab communities, such as the Masalit in West Darfur, are particularly vulnerable, with women and girls being subjected to sexual slavery, sold in markets, and forced into prostitution. Various militias, including the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), are intentionally impregnating women as a means of changing the ethnic composition of Sudanese blood.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that abortion is illegal in Sudan, leaving survivors with limited options. The social stigma attached to SGBV and the children born as a result of rape exacerbates the difficulties faced by survivors. In the past, there were community-based mechanisms and referral pathways to address SGBV, but now victims are left to cope on their own, carrying unwanted pregnancies and experiencing trauma and severe complications.

While the RSF claims to have zero tolerance for SGBV, cases are still being reported. Some observers interpret this as a lack of cohesion within the RSF ranks, while others argue that control is lost once the fighting subsides. Community services and facilities that provided support for SGBV victims have also been disrupted due to the conflict.

The lack of access to sexual violence services and the social stigma surrounding SGBV further compounds the challenges faced by survivors. Service providers and first responders are also at risk, as the RSF threatens civilians with either joining their ranks or facing torture. Urgent support is needed to prevent further violations and help victims during the conflict. Delegates at the conference called for comprehensive sexual reproductive health services, including family planning protocols, rape protocols, HIV medicines, and safe abortions when necessary.

The scale of SGBV in Sudan is part of a broader problem of the lack of protection for civilians. The international community is being urged to provide more support, prioritize the protection of civilians, and hold perpetrators of SGBV and other crimes accountable. Displaced people in Sudan, many of whom walk for days to escape violence, are among the most vulnerable and in need of protection. Pregnant women on these routes often experience miscarriages, trauma, malnutrition, and a lack of medical care. Children are also exceptionally vulnerable, with several dying every week on the escape route. Without adequate protections in place, these civilians continue to face the risk of further SGBV.

Analysis:

The article provides information about the prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Sudan before and during the ongoing conflict. The sources are mentioned by name and affiliation, which adds credibility to their statements. The article includes quotes from activists and humanitarian workers involved in addressing SGBV in Sudan, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the issue.

The presentation of facts is clear and supported by specific examples and statistics. The article highlights the difficulty in accurately documenting the number of SGBV cases due to various obstacles and the lack of access to support services. The impact of SGBV on women, girls, and communities in Sudan is portrayed through quotes and descriptions from those directly involved in addressing the issue.

As for potential biases, the article does not indicate any specific biases in the sources or in the presentation of facts. However, it is important to consider that the article predominantly focuses on the experiences and perspectives of activists and humanitarian workers, which may not provide a comprehensive representation of all viewpoints.

The political landscape and the prevalence of fake news can influence the public’s perception of this information in several ways. The ongoing conflict in Sudan may lead some individuals to question the reliability and accuracy of the information provided, especially if they are skeptical of international aid organizations or have nationalist sentiments. The prevalence of fake news and disinformation may also contribute to doubts about the credibility of the sources mentioned in the article.

Despite these potential challenges, the article provides a reliable account of the prevalence of SGBV in Sudan and highlights the urgent need for action and support. The inclusion of diverse viewpoints and the reliance on recognizable organizations and individuals add credibility to the information provided. It is important for readers to critically evaluate the information and consider multiple sources to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue.

Source: Aljazeera news: Sexual violence still a major threat as Sudan’s conflict grinds on