The number of people at risk of gender-based violence, including sexual violence, has tripled to more than 12 million since the start of the war.
Sudanese women and girls are bear the brunt of a crisis that is entering its third year on April 15th. Acute food anxiety, an astounding proportion of gender-based violence, and limited access to healthcare, education and livelihood opportunities constitute most of the 12 million displaced people both domestically and internationally.
Less than two years later, the number of people at risk of gender-based violence tripled to 12.1 million. Cases of conflict-related sexual violence remain highly underreported, but evidence suggests systematic use as a weapon of war. Amidst the escalation of conflict, women and girls face a crisis of sharp levels of food insecurity and aggravated hunger in most affected areas, given their limited access to food, essential goods and services.
80% of hospitals in conflict-affected areas are not functioning, causing a surge in maternal deaths, hampering women’s access to sexual and reproductive health care. 80% of evacuated women have no access to clean water due to affordability, safety concerns and distance.
Despite these challenges, women step up as key responders and peace champions, demanding 50% of the representation in the negotiation table led by the Kampala Feminist Declaration, an important blueprint set by 49 women-led groups.
“Women in Sudanese are systematically excluded from the peace process, while enduring the most significant forms of violence, but are systematically excluded from reconciliation,” said Anna Mutabati, UN Regional Director of Women in East and South Africa. “This exclusion, despite its compelling evidence of its transformational role in shaping the political landscape of Sudan, is extraordinary, but it cannot navigate alone this crisis. It will rebuild and thrive.”
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Over the past two years, UN women have partnered with over 60 women-led organizations to reach more than 15,000 women in some of Sudan’s most affected areas. Through programs supported by the Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF), displaced people have access to safe shelters, mental health care and legal aid, and critical spaces to hear their voices in local and international arenas. However, the needs are enormous and more funding is essential to expand support.
United Nations women urgently call for a restoration of peace and immediate termination of all forms of gender-based violence and accountability for perpetrators. Local women’s organizations must receive sufficient resources to protect and empower the community. The voice of women must be frontline and center in any peace negotiation. By working together to put women at the heart of their recovery, Sudan begins to heal towards a more just and stable future.
