Sudan’s War: Journalists Under Siege Amid Escalating Conflict

Since the outbreak of civil war in Sudan in April 2023, at least seven journalists have been killed, with one reported missing and several others detained, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has severely compromised press freedom, with both factions accused of deliberately targeting media professionals.

Among the notable casualties is Halima Idris Salim, a journalist for Sudan Bokra, who was fatally struck by an RSF vehicle while reporting in Omdurman on October 10, 2023. Her death has raised concerns about the safety of female journalists in conflict zones.

The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate (SJS) has documented over 40 violations against journalists in the latter half of May 2023 alone, including arbitrary detentions and physical assaults. Media outlets have been subjected to raids, with offices of newspapers like El Hirak El Siyasi and El Madaniya being targeted. Additionally, the RSF has been accused of transforming the premises of the Sudan Broadcasting Corporation into a detention center and looting media equipment.

Despite the dangers, many journalists continue to operate under challenging conditions. Mohamed Chouaib, a journalist in North Darfur, emphasized the importance of their role in documenting the conflict and giving a voice to the victims under siege.

The international community has been urged to hold both the SAF and RSF accountable for crimes against journalists and to ensure the protection of media personnel in conflict zones. RSF has called for immediate action to safeguard journalists and uphold press freedom in Sudan.

As the war persists, the targeting of journalists continues to undermine the fundamental right to information and the role of the press in conflict resolution. The international community’s response will be crucial in determining the future of press freedom in Sudan.