Rape used systematically as a weapon of war in Sudan, UN agency warns

15/4/2025 18:46

Rape is being used systematically as a weapon of war in Sudan, a UN agency warned on Tuesday, as the conflict marks its second year.



"We have seen a 288% increase in demand for life saving support for rape and sexual violence survivors. We are beginning to see the systematic use of rape and sexual violence as a weapon of war," Anna Mutavati, the regional director of UN Women, told reporters in Geneva via video link from Port Sudan.



"Women's bodies have turned into a battleground," she said, without saying which side in Sudan's war was responsible.



The war between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces erupted in April 2023, shattering hopes for a transition to civilian rule.



The conflict has since displaced millions and devastated regions like Darfur, where the RSF is fighting to maintain its stronghold amid army advances in Khartoum.