The Renew Europe Group condemns sexual violence as a weapon of war in Sudan, particularly against women and children. They urge targeted sanctions against violators and increased humanitarian aid. UNICEF reports alarming statistics on gender-based violence, with numerous cases involving children. The group calls for immediate action from the EU and emphasizes the need for protection of vulnerable populations in the ongoing conflict.
The Renew Europe Group in the European Parliament has issued a strong condemnation of the rampant sexual violence in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, highlighting the vulnerability of women and children. The group has called for immediate action from the Council, urging the imposition of targeted sanctions against those accountable for severe human rights violations.
According to UNICEF, approximately 12.1 million individuals are at risk of gender-based violence in Sudan, with a disturbing 221 reported cases of rape involving children since last year, including 16 victims aged five and younger. The urgency resolution, adopted by parliament, emphasizes the need for EU Member States to support investigations by the International Criminal Court into grave crimes in Darfur and to enhance humanitarian assistance for Sudan and its neighbors.
In light of the fact that two-thirds of Sudan’s population faces humanitarian risks, all parties to the conflict are encouraged to facilitate safe and unrestricted access for humanitarian organizations like the World Food Programme.
MEP Hilde Vautmans, the Renew Europe Group’s coordinator on Foreign Affairs, highlighted the destructive impact of sexual violence on society, stating that it devastates communities and future generations. She questioned Europe’s past inaction concerning Sudan and emphasized the urgency of addressing the crisis. Vautmans called for decisive action, including sanctions against war criminals and the enforcement of an arms embargo across Sudan, asserting the necessity of protecting women and children from sexual violence.
The Renew Europe Group has taken a firm stance against the atrocities occurring in Sudan, particularly regarding the mass sexual violence impacting women and children. It calls for the EU’s active engagement in humanitarian efforts and legal accountability for perpetrators of human rights abuses. Urging swift legislative and humanitarian responses, the group emphasizes the critical need for international action to mitigate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
Original Source: www.reneweuropegroup.eu
