As we reflect on International Women’s Day 2026, the Sudanese Alliance for Rights acknowledges the courage, resilience, and achievements of women everywhere. Across the globe, celebrations highlighted the vital contributions of women and girls to building just, equitable, and inclusive societies under this year’s UN theme, “Rights. Actions. Justice.”
In Sudan, however, the reality remains grim for women and girls caught in the ongoing conflict, now entering its fourth year. Scores have endured displacement, sexual and gender-based violence, attacks on markets and homes, limited access to food, healthcare, and education, and the daily trauma of living amid insecurity and armed violence. Many continue to face harassment, threats, and the challenge of protecting their families in an environment where their rights are under constant attack.
These acts constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and Additional Protocol II, which require parties to distinguish civilians from combatants and protect civilian populations and infrastructure. They also violate international and regional human rights law, including the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol). These frameworks obligate parties to safeguard women and girls, ensure access to essential services, and protect them from violence.
The Sudanese Alliance for Rights calls for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire across all conflict-affected areas. Protecting women, girls, and civilians must be an urgent humanitarian and human rights priority. We urge all parties to ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access, provide protection from attacks, and take immediate, concrete measures to prevent further violations.
As we reflect on the spirit of International Women’s Day, we reaffirm that peace, justice, and the protection of human rights are inseparable. Women and girls in Sudan cannot wait any longer; their rights must be upheld, their safety guaranteed, and those responsible for violations held accountable. True justice will only be realised when the guns fall silent, civilians are protected, and women and girls are empowered to participate fully in rebuilding a peaceful and equitable Sudan.
Sudanese Alliance for Rights
9 March 2026
