Renew Europe condemns mass sexual violence in Sudan, highlighting the risks for women and children. MEPs’ resolution calls for support for the ICC’s investigations and increased humanitarian aid. UNICEF reports significant gender-based violence risks, with numerous child victims. Urgent access for humanitarian aid is essential for Sudan’s population, and the need for European action is emphasized.
Renew Europe has issued a strong condemnation of the mass sexual violence being perpetrated as a weapon of war in the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Women and children remain especially vulnerable during this nearly two-year crisis. In light of these atrocities, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) presented an urgent resolution urging the European Union (EU) and its Member States to support the International Criminal Court’s investigation into genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity occurring in Darfur.
The resolution also emphasizes the need to enhance humanitarian aid to Sudan and its neighboring countries, as well as secure funding dedicated to survivors of sexual violence. UNICEF’s findings are alarming, indicating that approximately 12.1 million individuals in Sudan are at risk of gender-based violence. Moreover, there have been 221 reported cases of rape involving children in the past year, with 16 victims being under five years old.
All factions engaged in the conflict are urged to facilitate safe, timely, and unobstructed access for humanitarian organizations such as the World Food Programme, especially given that two-thirds of Sudan’s population is at risk. Hilde Vautmans, MEP, stated, “For far too long, Europe has looked away from what is happening in Sudan. Today, we make a clear statement, Europe must act and work towards a ceasefire. We urge Europe to impose sanctions on the war criminals, and to ensure that the UN arms embargo is effectively enforced and extended to the entire country. We have to protect all women and children from sexual violence. It must end here.”
To access the full resolution, please click the link provided.
The situation in Sudan demands immediate attention and action, particularly regarding the protection of women and children from sexual violence. The resolution presented by Renew Europe calls for substantial support for investigations into war crimes and increased humanitarian assistance. Urgent measures are needed to ensure access for humanitarian entities and to hold perpetrators accountable, while emphasizing a collective effort from the EU and its Member States to address these humanitarian crises effectively.
Original Source: www.aldeparty.eu
