Title: Children, vulnerable victims of the war in Sudan
Introduction :
Since April 15, Sudan has been plunged into a bloody conflict opposing the armed forces of General al-Burhan to the paramilitaries of the Rapid Support Forces (FSR) led by General Hemedti. Beyond the disastrous humanitarian consequences of this war, a major concern emerges: the recruitment and use of children by armed groups. Siobhan Mullally, UN special rapporteur on human trafficking, has expressed concern about the alarming practice. In this article, we will take a closer look at the facts and consequences of this tragic reality.
The recruitment of children by armed groups:
According to UN teams, children represent a prime target for armed forces and armed groups in Sudan. Poor children or children separated from their families, who are particularly vulnerable, are said to be targeted by the Rapid Support Forces, mainly in the suburbs of Khartoum. Similar kidnappings were also reported in other parts of the country, including Darfur and South Kordofan. Once kidnapped, these children are forced to join the ranks of armed groups and are destined to participate in the fighting.
The consequences for children:
The situation in which these children find themselves is extremely worrying. In addition to being exposed to an environment of violence and war, they are deprived of their childhood and their fundamental rights. Their recruitment constitutes a flagrant violation of human rights as well as international law. Siobhan Mullally emphasizes that the consent of minors has no value in this context. It is urgent to put an end to this barbaric practice which robs children of their innocence and their future.
An old but persistent practice:
Although shocking, the use of children in armed conflict is unfortunately not new in Sudan. It was already present during the war in Darfur from 2003 to 2020 as well as during the war for independence in South Sudan. In 2016, the Sudanese government committed to ending the recruitment of children into its armed forces by signing an action plan with the United Nations. However, it is clear that these commitments have not been respected.
Conclusion :
It is essential to put an end to this tragedy which deprives thousands of children of their childhood and their future. The international community must take concrete measures to prevent and remedy this situation. By addressing this central problem and working together for reconciliation and stability in Sudan, we can hope to offer these children a better life, marked by peace and security.