Assessment of Human Rights Violations Against Sudanese Refugees in South Sudan

In November 2023, the Joint UN Human Rights Office assessed the human rights situation in South Sudan for Sudanese refugees and documented severe abuses resulting from the ongoing conflict between SAF and RSF. The mission identified numerous violations, including civilian killings and property destruction, reflecting a dire lack of protection for vulnerable populations amidst increasing turmoil.

The Joint UN Human Rights Office conducted a mission from November 21 to 30, 2023, to South Sudan, focusing on the human rights conditions of Sudanese refugees fleeing from ongoing violence in Sudan. Amid escalating conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 15, significant human rights violations were reported. This included indiscriminate attacks resulting in civilian casualties, destruction of civilian infrastructure, sexual violence, enforced disappearances, and extensive property looting. Case analyses revealed that approximately sixty-seven civilians were killed, highlighting the targeting of individuals based on perceived ethnicity or political views, particularly in regions like Khartoum and Darfur. The findings underscore a grave disregard for international humanitarian law by all conflict parties, exacerbated by weakened state authority, especially in Darfur and Khartoum, complicating the government’s ability to protect civilians effectively.

In an effort to address the human rights crisis following escalating conflicts in Sudan, the Joint Human Rights Office undertook a comprehensive mission to South Sudan to monitor and document abuses faced by Sudanese refugees. Since April 2023, severe violations of international human rights and humanitarian laws have surged due to the intensified strife between the SAF and RSF, prompting urgent international scrutiny. This monitoring mission sought not only to assess the human suffering inflicted by the conflict but also to uphold accountability in the face of impunity.

The assessment conducted by the Joint UN Human Rights Office reveals alarming human rights abuses committed against Sudanese civilians, particularly impacting vulnerable groups seeking refuge in South Sudan. The mission’s findings underscore a significant failure to adhere to international humanitarian law by involved parties, raising concerns over the effectiveness of state authority in preventing these abuses. Ongoing efforts are necessary to ensure the protection of civilians and uphold their rights amid this protracted conflict.

Original Source: reliefweb.int