Renew Europe condemns mass sexual violence as a weapon of war in Sudan, focusing on the risk to women and children. MEPs are urging the EU to support ICC investigations into war crimes and increase humanitarian aid while ensuring the protection of survivors. UNICEF’s alarming findings highlight the need for immediate action to safeguard those affected.
Renew Europe has condemned the utilization of mass sexual violence as a weapon in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, which has persisted for nearly two years. Women and children are especially vulnerable in this situation. Moving forward, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have called for the EU and its Member States to support investigations into genocide and war crimes in Darfur by the International Criminal Court (ICC) as well as to enhance humanitarian assistance to Sudan and surrounding regions.
UNICEF reports that around 12.1 million people in Sudan could suffer from gender-based violence, including 221 recorded cases of child rape in the past year, with 16 of these victims being under five years old. The situation is dire, prompting the urgent need for humanitarian access. All parties must facilitate the work of humanitarian organizations, particularly the World Food Programme, as two-thirds of Sudan’s population is currently at risk.
Hilde Vautmans MEP, who spearheaded the resolution negotiations, asserted, “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.” She further stressed the need for imposing sanctions on war criminals and ensuring strict enforcement of the UN arms embargo across the nation to safeguard women and children from sexual violence.
The resolution emphasizes urgent support for humanitarian aid in Sudan, calls for the prosecution of war crimes, and stresses the need for enhanced protection of women and children within conflict zones. There is a collective responsibility to prioritize safety and uphold human rights, particularly in light of the severe gender-based violence impacting vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.aldeparty.eu
