A call of justice for victims and survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in Sudan
A call of justice for victims and survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in Sudan
Side event to the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva
On 27 February 2025, Legal Action Worldwide (LAW) and Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) Network hosted a side event to the Human Rights Council on avenues of justice for victims and survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in Sudan.
The panel unanimously agreed that assistance and protection to survivors and first responders on the ground is an absolute priority. Aid workers on the front lines, especially women, must be protected so they can provide support to victims and survivors, who need immediacy, flexibility and access to services.
The panel also emphasised that violence committed with impunity has a devastating impact. It prolongs the war and prevents reconciliation by creating a cycle of brutality.
Dr. Badmus-Busari, Director of SIHA, discussed the critical role SIHA plays in documenting cases of sexual violence in Sudan, such as rape, gang rape, and sexual slavery. She stressed the importance of international legal mechanisms, calling for the expansion of the ICC’s mandate and the establishment of new tribunals. Dr. Badmus-Busari also emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to survivor support, including medical care, psychological assistance, and emergency relocation.
Ms. Mulvey acknowledged the immense challenges responders face, noting the tragic loss of 63 colleagues working on the frontlines in Sudan. She praised the bravery of survivors and urged the international community to take immediate action to support their recovery and ensure justice.
Ms. Rishmawi, from the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan, presented findings that sexual violence has become systematic in Sudan, with armed groups like the RSF using it as a weapon of war. She pointed out the extreme violence women and girls face, including assaults in their homes, on the streets, and in detention centers, while justice remains elusive. Rishmawi called for immediate investigations, specialised judicial systems, and a holistic approach to justice that includes healing for survivors.
The Norwegian Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Endresen, emphasised the strategic use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and the devastating impact on women and girls in Sudan. He highlighted that 70% of healthcare facilities in Sudan are non-functional, leaving survivors without adequate medical care. Norway reiterated its commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts and ensuring accountability through both top-down and bottom-up actions to help survivors and bring perpetrators to justice.
The event concluded with a strong call for urgent action, reinforcing the need for survivor-centered approaches, stronger international legal frameworks, and accountability for perpetrators. Panelists underscored that addressing sexual violence in Sudan requires coordinated international efforts to support survivors and hold those responsible accountable.
This event was held in partnership with the Permanent Mission of Norway to the United Nations Office and other international organisations in Geneva, Permanent Mission of the Federal Republic of Germany to the United Nations Office and other international organisations in Geneva, Permanent Mission of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to the United Nations Office and other international organisations in Geneva, UN Women, and Human Rights Watch.
You will find here a booklet containing the body mapping work and stories from the ten incredible women who courageously revisited their past and allowed their stories to be shared.