Note: Refugees International is a refugee advocate organization getting no funds from any government. Check out the link and the entire website for more information on refugee situations around the world06/01/2005
The Government of Sudan’s detention of Médecins Sans Frontières Holland’s director for Sudan, Paul Foreman, and the group's Darfur coordinator, Vincent Hoedt, a day after the Secretary-General Kofi Annan left the country, is an affront to the Secretary General and yet another example of the Government’s unwillingness to accept international human rights standards. The two aid workers were detained on charges of publishing false reports, undermining society, and spying after the release of their report, “The Crushing Burden of Rape: Sexual Violence in Darfur,” which was published on March 8, 2005. The report documented the plight of the hundreds of women and girls seeking medical care following rape and sexual violence in Darfur, but did not directly implicate the Government of Sudan.
Rape and sexual violence are rampant in Darfur. Refugees International has documented the ongoing sexual violence in its five trips to Darfur and Chad in the past year. The Sudanese Government and international humanitarian agencies have only recently begun to address this issue in an effective manner. MSF-Holland has played a crucial role in providing health care for the women of Darfur. Their work in treating survivors of rape and sexual violence, and speaking out about the terrible crimes being committed has been courageous.
MSF’s work with survivors of rape and sexual violence is part of an extensive health program in Darfur that encompasses a network of 50 clinics serving 1.25 million people. Forcing the agency to end their program in Darfur would cripple the provision of health care in the region.
The Government of Sudan must cease its efforts to intimidate and block international assistance efforts, particularly those that aim to support the survivors of sexual violence. Such intimidation makes it extremely difficult for international aid workers to assist and protect these women. Refugees International urges the Sudanese authorities to drop all charges against Mr. Foreman and Mr. Hoedt and allow them and MSF Holland to continue their work immediately.
http://www.refugeesinternational.org/content/article/detail/5942Also more about Anan's visit here:
Annan’s trip to Sudan highlights need for political settlement in Darfur
http://www.refugeesinternational.org/content/article/detail/5882
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