UAE Advocates for Inclusion of Sexual Violence in Sudan Sanctions

The UAE has requested the UN Security Council to categorize conflict-related sexual violence as a key factor in Sudan’s sanctions, highlighting 221 verified cases. Mohamed Abushahab urged increased international pressure for negotiations to end hostilities and allow humanitarian access, while UNICEF reported an 80% rise in the risk of sexual assault. He also stressed the need for support for survivors of such violence.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has urged the United Nations Security Council to recognize conflict-related sexual violence as an independent criterion in the sanctions imposed on Sudan. UAE’s permanent representative, Mr. Mohamed Abushahab, highlighted 221 confirmed incidents of sexual violence, many involving children under one year of age, during a briefing on Sudan.

In his statement, Mr. Abushahab advocated for increased international pressure on Sudan’s warring factions to engage in negotiations and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. The ongoing conflict, stemming from a power struggle between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) since April 2023, has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing over 12 million individuals and claiming tens of thousands of lives.

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell reported a disturbing 80% increase in the frequency of sexual assaults affecting women, girls, and increasingly, men and boys over the past year. Mr. Abushahab asserted, “All perpetrators of conflict-related sexual violence, in Sudan and around the world, must be held accountable. The UAE unequivocally condemns, in the strongest terms, all forms of sexual violence.”

He expressed that survivors of such acts must receive adequate care, including essential mental health and psychosocial support, emphasizing the need for ongoing assistance long after hostilities cease. The representative further called for a concerted effort by the international community to persuade the warring generals to initiate political talks towards a lasting ceasefire.

Lastly, Mr. Abushahab urged both the RSF and the SAF to ensure unimpeded humanitarian access, allowing aid to reach vulnerable civilians through Sudan’s borders without obstruction.

The UAE has made a strong case for addressing sexual violence in the context of Sudan’s humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the importance of accountability for perpetrators. It has also called for diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict and facilitate the delivery of essential aid. The plight of those affected by sexual violence must not be overlooked, with an emphasis on providing adequate support for recovery and healing.

Original Source: www.arnnewscentre.ae