The Unchecked Brutality: Systematic Rape in Darfur by Rapid Support Forces and Allied Militias

Darfur: Rapid Support Forces, Allied Militias Rape Dozens

The Situation in West Darfur

In recent weeks, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), an independent military force, and allied militias in Sudan have committed multiple acts of sexual violence, including rape, against women and girls in West Darfur‘s capital, El Geneina, as well as those who were fleeing the fighting and seeking refuge in Chad. These actions constitute war crimes and, if part of a widespread or systematic attack, can amount to crimes against humanity.

The RSF and the Arab militias have been carrying out repeated attacks on towns and villages in West Darfur since the armed conflict began in April. These attacks, which mainly target areas occupied by the Massalit ethnic community, have resulted in numerous civilian deaths, injuries, and the displacement of more than 366,000 people to Chad.

A recent investigation by Human Rights Watch has documented 78 cases of rape between April 24 and June 26, during which survivors reported being attacked by armed men, some wearing RSF uniforms and arriving in RSF-marked vehicles. In most instances, the perpetrators also committed other grave abuses, such as beatings, killings, looting, and burning of homes, businesses, and government buildings. Survivors have stated that the attackers explicitly mentioned their ethnic identity and used ethnic slurs about the Massalit or non-Arabs in general.

The Need for Accountability and Support

These acts of sexual violence must not go unpunished, and the international community, including the United Nations Human Rights Council, must prioritize the establishment of an independent investigation into these crimes. The UN Security Council should hold a briefing by the special representative of the secretary-general on sexual violence in conflict, drawing attention to the gravity of the situation and urging action to bring an end to these atrocities.

Furthermore, concerned governments should provide additional resources to support rape survivors in Darfur. The stories of brutal rape and the devastating consequences of these crimes should mobilize donors to meet the survivors’ needs and support efforts to facilitate the delivery of justice.

A History of Impunity in Darfur

It is important to recognize that sexual violence has been a prominent feature of the conflict in Darfur since 2003. Government forces and Janjaweed militias, the precursor to the RSF, have frequently targeted non-Arab communities, including the Massalit. Despite the Sudanese government’s claims of investigating alleged abuses in Darfur, no significant progress has been made towards holding the perpetrators accountable.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has already brought charges for rape in its existing Darfur cases, and the court’s investigations in Darfur should be actively supported by the international community. The UN Security Council should publicly condemn governments that do not respect the existing arms embargo on Darfur and impose targeted sanctions against commanders and officials responsible for serious abuses, including sexual violence. Additionally, the African Union and regional organizations should cooperate with the UN Security Council and Human Rights Council to develop a coordinated response to the crisis.

Recommendations for Action

In light of the reports of rape and other grave violations in Darfur, the following actions are recommended:

1. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias should abide by international humanitarian law and take measures to end rape and other forms of sexual violence by their forces. Those responsible for serious abuses, including senior commanders, should be appropriately punished.

2. Governments and actors with influence over the warring parties should act to promote adherence to international law and condemn governments that do not respect the arms embargo on Darfur.

3. The UN Security Council should support the International Criminal Court’s investigations in Darfur and actively uphold the court’s authority.

4. The UN Human Rights Council should establish an independent mechanism with a mandate to investigate, collect, and preserve evidence of grave violations and abuses in Darfur and elsewhere in Sudan. This mechanism should prioritize survivor-centered approaches and ensure access to medical, psychosocial, legal, and socioeconomic services for survivors.

5. Concerned governments, including the European Union and the United States, should impose targeted sanctions on leaders of the RSF, the Sudan Armed Forces, and armed groups responsible for serious abuses against civilians.

Conclusion

The disturbing reports of rape and sexual violence in Darfur necessitate urgent and coordinated action from the international community. Swift and comprehensive investigations must be conducted to bring the perpetrators to justice, and resources must be allocated to support the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of the survivors. It is vital that concerned governments and international bodies prioritize the protection of civilians and work towards ending the cycle of violence in Darfur.

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