Women in Darfur at risk of sexual violence: MSF

Sexual violence is a “near-constant risk” for women and girls in Sudan's western region of Darfur, Doctors without Borders (MSF) warned on Wednesday, calling for urgent action to protect civilians and provide support to survivors.

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Since war began in April 2023 between Sudan's regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, the reported attacks in Darfur have been “heinous and cruel, often involving multiple perpetrators,” according to MSF emergency coordinator Claire San Filippo.

The conflict has killed tens of thousands, displaced 13 million and left the country's already fragile infrastructure in ruins.

“Women and girls do not feel safe anywhere,” said San Filippo, after MSF teams from Darfur and neighbouring Chad gathered harrowing accounts of victims.

“They are attacked in their own homes, when fleeing violence, getting food, collecting firewood, working in the fields. They tell us they feel trapped,” she added.