UNICEF Reports Widespread Child Rape Used as War Tactic in Sudan

Children as young as one have been sexually assaulted by armed groups in Sudan's ongoing conflict, with the true scale of violence likely far greater than documented cases.

UNICEF has documented 221 cases of child rape in Sudan since early 2024, with 66% of survivors being girls and 33% boys, including four one-year-olds.
An additional 77 cases of sexual assault, primarily attempted rapes, have been reported, though these figures are believed to represent only a fraction of the true scale.
Sexual violence is being used systematically as a tactic of war by armed groups, violating international laws protecting civilians and children.
Victims face severe physical injuries, lifelong psychological trauma, and social stigma, with many reluctant to report these crimes due to fear of retribution or rejection.
UNICEF urges all parties in Sudan's conflict to protect civilians, particularly children, and calls for immediate action to address the crisis and safeguard survivors.