Geneva, A group of UN experts has raised alarm over escalating human trafficking in Sudan, particularly concerning sexual exploitation, forced marriage, and child recruitment for armed conflict. These developments come amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which has seen more than 9 million people displaced.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the experts have noted with concern the increasing instances of trafficking of women and girls for sexual exploitation and slavery, especially among internally displaced populations. The crisis has intensified since December 2023, following the conflict between Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) that began in April of the same year.

There have been disturbing reports of women and girls being sold in slave markets in areas under RSF control. Additionally, the experts are troubled by the surge in child, early, and forced marriages, believed to be exacerbated by family separation and gender-based violence.

The recruitment of children by armed groups has continued, in defiance of previous warnings issued to Sudanese authorities and the RSF. This practice, which includes deploying children in hostilities, is a serious infringement of human rights and international law.

Humanitarian efforts have been significantly hindered by attacks on UN agencies and other organizations critical to delivering relief. The looting and destruction of humanitarian facilities, including Women and Girls Safe Spaces (WGSS), have dramatically reduced the support available to those in need.

The UN experts are also concerned about the increasing difficulties faced by aid agencies in reaching conflict-affected areas, often due to restrictions imposed by armed groups. They emphasize the urgent need for accountability and thorough investigation of these human rights and international law violations.

Furthermore, the closure of the UN Mission in Sudan amidst this violence and insecurity adds another layer of concern for the international community. The UN experts have engaged with the RSF and Sudanese authorities regarding these pressing issues, seeking to address the dire situation.