Press release
Geneva – May 9, 2024
United Nations human rights experts have expressed renewed concerns over credible and systematic allegations of human trafficking, particularly related to sexual slavery, sexual exploitation, child marriage, child labor, and the recruitment of children for combat roles by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan.
In a memorandum addressed to Sudanese authorities and leaders of the Rapid Support Forces, the experts called for clarifications and urgent actions to address these serious allegations. Reports indicate that women and girls, including
internally displaced persons, are being abducted for trafficking purposes, especially in areas controlled by the RSF.
The experts highlighted shocking reports of girls as young as 14 being sold in ‘slave markets’ under the control of RSF forces. Additionally, there are increasing reports of child trafficking for labor exploitation, particularly in traditional gold mining, and their recruitment into combat roles by armed groups, including the RSF.
Despite previous communications raising similar concerns, the response and accountability remain absent. The experts emphasized that these grave human rights violations against women and children, including sexual slavery and exploitation, and the use of children in armed conflicts, violate international human rights law and humanitarian law.
The experts stressed the urgent need to address these issues, urging comprehensive investigations, accountability for perpetrators, compensation for survivors, and prevention of further exploitation to protect the rights and well-being of vulnerable populations affected by the conflict in Sudan.
The experts called on the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan to provide clarifications and take measures to address these allegations, ensuring protection and support for victims, including efforts to prevent the recruitment and trafficking of children for exploitation purposes.