Sudan's Sexual Violence as Weapon of War Triggers Mental Health Crisis: UN
In Sudan, the alarming use of sexual violence and rape in warfare has created a major mental health crisis, as highlighted by the UN and local aid groups. Since the conflict erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), tens of thousands have died and around 11 million people have been displaced. Médecins Sans Frontières revealed that from January 2024 to November 2025, over 3,396 survivors, mainly women and girls, sought help in North and South Darfur. However, the World Health Organization warned these numbers may only reflect a small portion of the reality. Avni Amin from WHO noted obstacles like poor security and lack of trained health workers are hindering access to vital services for survivors.
Key facts
- Sexual violence used as weapon of war in Sudan
- Conflict between Sudanese army and RSF since April 2023
- Tens of thousands killed, 11 million displaced
- MSF reported 3,396 survivors of sexual violence in North and South Darfur (Jan 2024-Nov 2025)
- WHO says numbers are tip of the iceberg
- Avni Amin, WHO gender-based violence unit head, spoke at UN Geneva event
- Lack of security and trained health workers hinder access to services
- Incidents include shooting and raping of health worker, woman in labour dying, suicides to avoid rape
Entities
Institutions
- United Nations
- World Health Organization
- Médecins Sans Frontières
- Rapid Support Forces
- Sudanese army
Locations
- Sudan
- North Darfur
- South Darfur
- Geneva
- Switzerland