Tuesday, 22 January 2008

New Amnesty International report on Darfur

Amnesty International are ensuring the Darfur conflict is not forgotten.

Background:
The conflict began in 2003 after accusations by rebels of black Africans being oppressed.

The government admits using "self-defense militas" to respond but denies being involved with the Janjaweed.

Millions have been displaced by the violence.

7,000 African Union troops are deployed in Darfur on a limited mandate, but are very scattered.

New report:

A new report has been published, which gives details of the dangers of rape inside the camps and the problems of forced return.

Child soliders are also recruited by various groups.

'The presence of weapons in the camps has worsened an already volatile security situation for everyone,' said Hondora.

'In some IDP camps, a revolver can be bought for only US $25 - leading to widespread incidents of robbery and assault.

In this charged atmosphere of anger, fear, insecurity and political disagreements, quarrels often turn tragic.


Amnesty International called on the UN forces in Darfur (UNAMID) to ensure the protection of the internally displaced, including by stationing units near each camp and by constant patrolling - including accompanying people collecting firewood.


A report by Mike Thompson in December shows how conditions for both refugees and aid workers have worsened.

Fatma Issa Mohammed Drama, a mother with six children at El Salam camp near El Fasher told me: "After dark it isn't safe to leave your place. You must keep out of sight. We live in fear.

People wander this camp at night with guns, often army people, and if they come across you, you could be killed."

Those leaving the camp to fetch water or firewood face being attacked and men with guns roam many of the settlements at night.

Robberies, car-jackings and rapes occur almost daily, sometimes in the centre of Darfur's main towns.


Questions answered by Darfur survivors.

Amnesty also has a petition. There is also a shop where you can purchase items to support Amnesty International's causes.

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