Urgent Action Needed to Address Atrocities Against Women and Children in Sudan
Renew Europe condemns the use of mass sexual violence in Sudan’s conflict. MEPs demand support for International Criminal Court investigations into war crimes, increased humanitarian aid, and funding for survivors. UNICEF reports alarming cases of gender-based violence, necessitating unhindered access for humanitarian aid. MEP Hilde Vautmans emphasizes the urgent need for Europe to act against these atrocities and protect vulnerable individuals.
Renew Europe has vocally condemned the rampant sexual violence employed as a tool of warfare in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, emphasizing the particular vulnerabilities faced by women and children. Recently, European Members of Parliament (MEPs) introduced an urgent resolution urging the European Union and its Member States to enhance support for the International Criminal Court in its investigations concerning genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity in Darfur. Furthermore, they called for an increase in humanitarian assistance to Sudan and its neighboring countries while ensuring adequate funding for survivors of sexual violence.
UNICEF reports indicate that approximately 12.1 million individuals in Sudan are at risk of gender-based violence. Alarmingly, there have been 221 documented cases of rape involving children since last year, with 16 victims under the age of five. In light of these grave statistics, all factions engaged in this conflict are urged to facilitate safe, timely, and unhindered access for humanitarian organizations, such as the World Food Programme, as two-thirds of Sudan’s population faces extensive risks.
Hilde Vautmans, a Member of the European Parliament, 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,” as she led the resolution’s negotiations.
The urgent resolution from Renew Europe highlights the dire need for action against the atrocities committed in Sudan, particularly towards vulnerable populations such as women and children affected by sexual violence. Immediate support for investigations, increased humanitarian aid, and the enforcement of sanctions against war criminals are essential steps. Continued advocacy and swift action from Europe can help mitigate the ongoing crisis and protect the rights and dignity of those most at risk in Sudan.
Original Source: www.aldeparty.eu
