Sudan’s ongoing conflict, now at its one-year mark, is causing significant harm to the people of Sudan, especially women and girls. The conflict has undone progress towards democracy and stability, plunging the country into suffering and insecurity, with a dire humanitarian crisis. UN Women urges the international community to prevent Sudan’s conflict from becoming a forgotten crisis.
Women and girls in Sudan are bearing the brunt of this violence, facing a humanitarian crisis largely unseen by the world. Sudan is experiencing one of the largest internal displacement crises globally, with 53% of those displaced being women and girls. There is now a looming risk of the world’s worst hunger crisis, with over 7,000 new mothers at risk of death if their health and nutritional needs are not met.
More than 6.7 million people are vulnerable to gender-based violence, with reports of intimate partner violence, sexual exploitation, and trafficking on the rise. Survivors struggle to access services or report abuses, further exacerbating their situation. The conflict’s economic impact has marginalized women further, depriving them of livelihoods and driving some towards extreme measures and increased risk of exploitation as they strive to support their families.
Women and girls, often the first responders in crises, are not just victims but also essential for their communities’ survival and resilience. UN Women praises the courage of Sudanese women and women’s rights groups advocating for peace and democratic governance. Their involvement in peace processes and humanitarian efforts is not just helpful but vital for achieving long-lasting peace and security.
Immediate action is needed to protect women and girls, empower them economically, and involve them in peace talks and decision-making. International partners and donors are urged to invest in local, women-led organizations and prioritize resources for addressing the gender aspects of this crisis.
UN Women stands in solidarity with the people of Sudan and echoes the Secretary-General’s call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue. Upholding human rights and international law must be a priority, with those responsible for violations held accountable. Only then can Sudan hope to rebuild democracy and create a peaceful and secure future for all.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN Women – Africa.