Sudan: Women Being Held Captive In 'Slave-Like' Conditions

The Darfur region of Sudan is witnessing a dire humanitarian crisis that has reached alarming proportions, with women and girls being abducted and held in 'slave-like' conditions.  As we mark the sombre six-month anniversary of the war, it is imperative to shed light on the grim statistics that underscore the tragedy. This distressing revelation comes in the wake of a disturbing surge in hostilities between the government's Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), coupled with escalating inter-communal tensions in this volatile region.

The bitter rivalry between these military forces has plunged the nation into a brutal civil war, leaving thousands dead and over 5.7 million displaced, including an estimated 105,000 women who are enduring the trials of pregnancy. A staggering 25 million people are now reliant on various forms of humanitarian aid to endure these dire circumstances.

Abductions and Chains: A Chilling Reality

Survivors, witnesses, and various sources have painted a horrifying picture,  reporting the abduction of over 20 women and girls. However, the actual number could be even higher, and the situation is dire. Accounts speak of women and girls shackled in chains, transported in pick-up trucks and cars, their freedom stolen from them in the cruellest manner imaginable.

Liz Throssell, the OHCHR spokesperson, delivered a chilling statement, revealing the extent of the atrocities. "Some sources have reported seeing women and girls in chains on pick-up trucks and in cars," she said. This grim situation is a dark testament to the depths to which humanity can descend when chaos and conflict reign.

The Alarming Incidents of Sexual Violence

As of now, more than 50 incidents of sexual violence have been reported in connection with the ongoing hostilities in Darfur. These heinous acts have left a harrowing impact on at least 105 victims, including 86 women, one man, and 18 children. Among these incidents, 23 were instances of rape, 26 involved gang rape, and three were attempts at rape. It's a stark and horrifying reminder of the vulnerability of women and children in times of war.

Disturbingly, a substantial 70 percent of these confirmed incidents of sexual violence, totalling 37 cases, are attributed to men donning RSF uniforms. Another eight cases are linked to armed men affiliated with the RSF, while two involve individuals in unidentified uniforms. Shockingly, even the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) are implicated in one case. The remaining incidents involve perpetrators who have yet to be identified, underscoring the need for accountability and justice.

Challenges in Reproductive Health and Protection

As the conflict continues to rage, women and girls in Sudan are grappling with formidable challenges in accessing life-saving reproductive health and protection services. The impact of the conflict has rendered around 80 percent of hospitals in affected areas non-functional. In regions such as Khartoum, Darfur, and Kordofan, less than one-third of health facilities are operating at full capacity. Furthermore, across all states in Sudan, there are severe shortages of medicines and essential supplies, including critical maternal health medications. In neighbouring countries housing displaced populations, the situation is no less dire, with stretched infrastructure and strained basic services.

A Desperate Plea for Action

In the face of this unfolding tragedy, the world must unite in its demand for immediate action. Throssell, the OHCHR Spokesperson, has called for the urgent release of the abducted women and girls, and for the perpetrators to be held accountable for their horrifying actions. High Commissioner Volker Türk's calls for senior officials of the SAF, RSF, and affiliated armed groups to enforce a policy of zero tolerance for sexual violence within their ranks must be heeded without delay.

The Call to End the Fighting

As we bear witness to this dreadful crisis, the  United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS) adds its voice, expressing deep concern over the escalating military conflict in Darfur and its devastating repercussions on civilians. This includes displacement, casualties, and property destruction.

UNITAMS implores all warring parties to adhere to international human rights and humanitarian laws, ensuring the protection of civilians and their safe passage from conflict-affected areas. Clementine Nkweta-Salami, the deputy head of UNITAMS, urgently underscores the imperative need to cease hostilities.

She notes, "The toll this conflict is taking on civilians is unimaginable. Fighting needs to stop, and parties to the conflict must ensure the safe passage of humanitarian assistance to the millions of people in Sudan who desperately need it."

The conflict in Sudan is exacting an immense toll on women and girls, who find themselves at the epicentre of the crisis. As the war persists, the challenges they face in accessing essential services and protection continue to mount. The collective response of the world to this tragedy can make a profound difference, offering hope and a path toward recovery for the women and girls of Sudan.

Suggested reading: Why Combating Gender-Based Violence Is Crucial For Global Development