UNICEF’s representative in Sudan, Mandip O’Brien, has warned that if the war between the “Army” and the “Rapid Support Forces” continues, a “generational catastrophe” will occur in the country, with children being the first victims.
O’Brien stressed that “the conflict in Sudan puts the health of 24 million children at risk, and therefore the future of the country, which could have serious consequences for the entire region.” She added that “around 20 million children will not attend school this year if quick action is not taken.”
O’Brien noted that among these displaced and refugee children are 3.5 million, pointing out that “14 million children are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance” in Sudan, which has a population of 48 million and where the war has affected most areas.
Today, O’Brien said that “millions of children are at risk of death, injury, recruitment (into armed work), violence and rape.”
In its annual report released on Thursday, Human Rights Watch condemned the “widespread violations” of civilians’ rights in Sudan by both sides of the conflict, particularly pointing out the “lack of accountability” that has led to “repeated cycles of violence” over the past 20 years.
