In a heartfelt plea addressed to the High Representative Kaja Kallas and EU Foreign Ministers, various human rights organisations lament the two years of relentless conflict in Sudan. Since April 2023, the clash between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has inflicted devastating casualties and forced an extensive humanitarian crisis, with 12.9 million people displaced—over half of whom are children, struggling to survive amid inadequate resources and shelter.
The horrors faced by those remaining in Sudan are numerous, with brutal acts including killings, torture, and pervasive sexual violence marking this conflict as a potential breeding ground for war crimes reminiscent of the Darfur crisis. Innocent children bear the brunt of the violence, witnessing aerial bombardments that rob them of education and safety. Furthermore, media freedom is stifled, as journalists are subjected to intimidation and violence, restricting information flow in wartime.
Ethnic violence and forced displacements re-emerge as chilling echoes of past atrocities, jeopardising entire communities once more. Humanitarian aid is deliberately obstructed, exacerbating the plight of survivors as emergency responders face harassment and violence. The letter calls for immediate actions from the EU, including condemning such violations and ensuring humanitarian assistance reaches those in desperate need.
The ongoing crisis also highlights the urgency of robust diplomatic engagement. With the suspension of U.S. foreign aid amplifying the humanitarian needs, EU commitment is crucial. The European Parliament has advocated for decisive action to protect civilians and hold violators accountable, emphasising the necessity for coordinated international efforts.
As the anniversary draws close, a stark appeal is made for Sudan’s situation to be a central agenda item for the upcoming EU Foreign Affairs Council. This includes strategies to enhance humanitarian assistance and protect the rights of victims of the conflict, underlining the responsibility of the EU and its member states to uphold human rights amid such turmoil.
Two years into the conflict in Sudan, the situation remains dire with over 12.9 million displaced and heinous human rights violations occurring unabated. Humanitarian aid is obstructed, and the need for EU and global action is critical. Urgent measures are called for, including protecting civilians, providing support for human rights defenders, and ensuring accountability for war crimes.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has marked two years of tragedy, with millions suffering from severe humanitarian crises. The outlined failures of global action, particularly by the EU, necessitate urgent and decisive strategies to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian aid, and promote accountability for human rights violations. The appeal to strengthen support for Sudanese human rights defenders and enforce international law underscores the need for a robust international response to end the suffering and restore peace in the troubled nation.
Original Source: www.omct.org
