UNICEF condemned the ongoing violence in Sudan, reporting at least 40 child fatalities and 29 injuries due to recent shelling. With over 12 million displaced since the conflict began in April 2023, the situation is dire. UNICEF’s Sudan Representative, Annmarie Swai, called for compliance with international humanitarian law and an end to violence, which threatens children’s lives and futures.
UNICEF has urgently called for an end to the ongoing violence in Sudan, where recent clashes in South Kordofan, Darfur, and Khartoum have resulted in the deaths of at least 40 children due to shelling. Additionally, at least 29 others have been injured since February 3, highlighting the severe and escalating dangers faced by children in the region. Annmarie Swai, UNICEF’s Sudan Representative, expresses profound concern over the frequency of these tragedies.
In her statement, Swai remarked that it is unfortunately uncommon for days to pass without reports of child casualties, emphasizing the grim reality that over 900 instances of severe violence against children have occurred in the latter half of 2024 alone. An alarming 80 percent of these incidents have been reported in Darfur, Khartoum, and Al Jazirah States, signaling an urgent need for intervention amid the escalating conflict.
Swai urged all conflict parties to adhere to international humanitarian law and safeguard children’s rights. She stressed that children are suffering immensely due to the ongoing fighting, appealing for an immediate cessation of violence to protect their lives and future. This plea aligns with UNICEF’s mission to advocate for the rights of children worldwide.
Since the conflict erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary RSF, over 12 million individuals have been forcibly displaced, making it a critical humanitarian crisis. The situation in Sudan remains dire, with significant implications for the population’s welfare.
Pope Francis has been vocal in addressing the humanitarian issues arising from the conflict in Sudan, consistently calling for negotiations and humanitarian support. His recent appeal coincided with a Vatican summit focusing on children’s rights, where he urged global leaders to collaborate on resolving ongoing conflicts that threaten vulnerable populations like children.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has deepened into a humanitarian crisis, particularly affecting children. Fighting has surged since April 2023, creating a situation where displacement and violence have become rampant. UNICEF’s role is crucial in providing aid and advocacy for children’s rights amid these circumstances, reflecting the global community’s concern regarding the situation in Sudan.
UNICEF’s appeal highlights the urgent need to protect children amidst the violent conflict in Sudan. The staggering number of child casualties and the widespread displacement underscore the critical situation. Continued advocacy and international intervention are vital to halt violence and ensure children’s rights are upheld in this crisis.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
