As Sudan’s conflict intensifies, horrific acts of sexual violence are emerging. Armed groups are raping and sexually assaulting children—including infants as young as one—according to a new report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Since the start of 2024, more than 220 cases of child rape have been reported by gender-based violence service providers in Sudan.
“Children as young as one being raped by armed men should shock anyone to their core and compel immediate action,” said Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director.
A HIDDEN CRISIS
The actual number of victims is likely much higher. Survivors and their families often stay silent due to stigma, lack of services, and fear of retaliation from armed groups. Sexual violence is being used as a weapon of war, leaving millions of children—especially girls—at risk. Displaced families seeking safety often end up in informal camps with minimal security. In these camps, the danger of sexual violence remains high.
THE DEVASTATING IMPACT ON CHILDREN
Of the 220 reported child rape cases, 66% were girls, many of whom were attacked while fleeing the conflict. Boys also suffer but face deep stigma, making it harder to report abuse and seek help. The youngest victims include 16 children under five years old, with four just one year old. “This is an abhorrent violation of international law and could constitute a war crime,” Russell emphasized. “It must stop.”
UNICEF’S RESPONSE
UNICEF and its partners are working to provide survivors with critical **gender-based violence services. Efforts include: – Establishing safe spaces for survivors, Training social workers and psychologists to support victims and addressing harmful social norms that silence survivors.
URGENT CALL FOR ACTION
UNICEF is urging all parties involved in the Sudan conflict to:
- Stop sexual violence and uphold international law.
- Protect civilians, especially children.
- Allow humanitarian workers to safely deliver aid.
- Strengthen data collection to hold perpetrators accountable.
“Widespread sexual violence in Sudan has instilled terror in people, especially children,” Russell warned. “These scars of war are immeasurable and long-lasting.” Without immediate action, Sudan’s sexual violence crisis will deepen, leaving a devastating legacy for generations.
