UN human rights experts stated that at least 330 cases of conflict-related sexual violence have been documented in Sudan since the beginning of 2025. They warned that the actual number could be much higher due to weak reporting mechanisms and victims’ fear of retaliation or social stigma.
This came in a statement issued by a number of independent experts, reviewed by Al-Hamish’s Voice , in which they strongly condemned the widespread and systematic violations against women and girls in Sudan, including rape, abduction, sexual slavery, and murder. They pointed out that many of these crimes have been attributed to the Rapid Support Forces, particularly in the states of Al-Jazirah, Sennar, Darfur, and South Kordofan.
The experts stated that sexual violence is being systematically used as a weapon of war, explaining that women and girls are increasingly being targeted inside displacement camps, markets, shelters, and even within their homes. Reports have included cases of gang rape, forced marriage, and abduction for repeated assault.
The statement pointed to a rise in suicide cases among women in areas such as Al-Sireiha, Azraq, Rufaa, and Abu Jalfah following horrific assaults. Meanwhile, many survivors are increasingly contemplating suicide as a means of escaping the ongoing violence, amid the absence of psychological support and care.
The experts added that the collapse of the healthcare system in conflict areas, such as Al-Fashir, has resulted in women giving birth under unsafe conditions, leading to a significant rise in maternal mortality rates and the absence of emergency reproductive health services.
The experts also documented an increase in cases of enforced disappearance of girls and women, particularly in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces. Many of the victims are believed to have been abducted for the purpose of sexual slavery, amid a total breakdown of protection systems and the absence of the rule of law.
