The United States embassy in Khartoum, Sudan, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ending all forms of gender-based violence (GBV) and to advance gender equity and equality.

The embassy made the statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (IDEVAW), where it stated that conflict had worsened the situation.

“Since the outbreak of conflict in Sudan on April 15, women and girls have been particularly vulnerable to heinous acts of violence and violation,” the statement from the embassy read partly.

“The United States strongly condemns pervasive conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in Sudan, which credible sources, including victims, have attributed largely to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allied militias.”

It continued that the numerous reports of rape, gang rape, and other forms of GBV against women and girls in Khartoum, Darfur, and other areas are repulsive and must be stopped.

“For those who have escaped the immediate threat of conflict in Sudan, the risk of GBV, including CRSV, in and outside of refugee and IDP camps and other settings is high.  The risk of exploitation and abuse is also high,” it stated.

The US Embassy noted that in times of conflict and crisis, the risk of GBV heightens.

“The United States does not accept CRSV or any other form of GBV as an inevitable byproduct of war; rather, we understand its prevention as an essential element of peacebuilding and rights promotion.’

The embassy pledged to continue supporting humanitarian partners in Sudan and neighbouring countries to provide assistance when possible, including GBV prevention and response, as well as psychosocial support services for the most vulnerable and at-risk populations across the country.

“The United States and its partners at the UN Human Rights Council also worked to create a new International Fact-Finding Mission that includes provisions for technical assistance and capacity building, in line with broader international efforts to promote accountability for human rights violations and abuses,” the statement read in part.

“We will continue to stand with the Sudanese people and for the rights of women and girls, not just on IDEVAW, but every day.”

The United Nations General Assembly has designated November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The day is marked to raise awareness around the world to eliminate GBV.