MSF Warns Sexual Violence Being Used as ‘Weapon of War’ in Darfur Conflict

Darfur, Sudan — The medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has warned that parties involved in the conflict in Darfur are systematically using sexual violence as a “weapon of war” to exert control over civilian populations.

In a statement issued Tuesday, MSF said that between January 2024 and November 2025, at least 3,396 survivors of sexual violence received medical treatment at facilities supported by the organization in North and South Darfur. According to MSF, 97 percent of those treated were women and girls.

The organization cautioned that the figures represent only a fraction of the true scale of abuse, noting that stigma, fear of reprisals, and limited access to healthcare facilities continue to prevent many survivors from seeking help.

MSF said it has gathered extensive medical data and firsthand testimonies that point to the deliberate and systematic nature of the violence, particularly in conflict-affected areas of Darfur.

The warning comes amid ongoing fighting between rival forces in Sudan, where humanitarian conditions have sharply deteriorated, leaving millions displaced and vulnerable.

Human rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns about the use of sexual violence in the conflict, calling for accountability and greater protection for civilians. MSF urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law and ensure safe access to medical and support services for survivors.