UN Reports Rape of Children including One-Year-Olds in Sudan

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has released a report detailing the systematic sexual violence against children in Sudan’s ongoing civil war. According to the report, at least 221 children have been raped and 77 have suffered sexual assault since the beginning of 2024. Among the youngest survivors are four one-year-olds and 12 children under the age of five.
66% of the rape survivors are girls, while 33% are boys.
The data, compiled by gender-based violence service providers, likely underrepresent the true scale of the problem. Many of the survivors and their families and frontline workers do not often report crimes due to cultural stigmas, retribution, and limited access to services.

The report highlights that boys especially face unique challenges in reporting sexual violence and seeking help. Despite comprising a third of the victims, boys are often stigmatized and may be less likely to come forward, making it even more difficult to address their needs and provide them with the necessary support.
The international community has expressed outrage over the findings. The United Nations Security Council has condemned the attacks and encouraged all parties involved in the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians particularly children.
UNICEF has called for immediate action to protect children in conflict zones and to ensure that survivors receive the support they need. The organization is working with local partners to provide medical care, psychological support, and legal assistance to survivors and their families.
UNICEF and other humanitarian organizations are urging the international community to increase funding and support for programs that protect children in conflict zones.