UN Human Rights Chief Alerts to Famine Threat in Sudan Amid Ongoing Conflict

The UN has warned of a potential famine in Sudan due to escalating violence that has forced millions to flee their homes. Attacks by the RSF have led to numerous civilian casualties, and violations of international humanitarian law are rampant. The UN urges immediate diplomatic action to protect civilians and ensure humanitarian aid delivery.

On Thursday, the United Nations expressed grave concerns regarding the potential for famine in Sudan, citing a recent suspension of World Food Programme operations due to severe clashes in North Darfur. UN Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, indicated that five areas are projected to face famine within the next three months, with an additional 17 areas at significant risk. Approximately 8.8 million individuals have been displaced internally, while 3.5 million have sought refuge in neighboring countries.

Fighting has escalated due to attacks by the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), on villages in the White Nile state, resulting in hundreds of fatalities. These recent assaults mark an intensification of hostilities between the RSF and government forces, which began earlier this year. Human Rights Watch has also reported on civilian attacks occurring in January, raising alarms about the ongoing violence.

According to international humanitarian law, specifically Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, military operations that target civilians violate fundamental principles of distinction. The International Court of Justice has defined the protection of civilians and the distinction between combatants and non-combatants as crucial elements. Such serious violations are considered war crimes as per the Rome Statute, with the UN Security Council having requested investigations into alleged war crimes in Darfur since July 2002.

The violence appears to be rooted in ethnic and tribal divisions, leading to indiscriminate attacks against women and children, alongside incidents of sexual violence, including gang rape. The United Nations has noted that the statistics on sexual violence are likely underreported due to the stigma and fear facing survivors. The ongoing conflict has devastated medical facilities, which are currently operating at just 30 percent of capacity, while the judicial system has disintegrated.

Mr. Turk further cautioned that the persistent conflict in Sudan poses threats not only to regional stability in the Horn of Africa but also to the international community as a whole. He urged that all nations utilize their influence to apply diplomatic and political pressure on involved parties and their supporters, advocating for a ceasefire, improved protection for civilians, and the unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance.

In summary, the situation in Sudan is dire, with an imminent famine looming due to ongoing violence and displacement of millions. Human rights violations are rampant, and the UN calls for urgent international attention to protect civilians and deliver humanitarian aid. Efforts to achieve a ceasefire and stabilize the region are critical to avert further escalation of this humanitarian crisis.

Original Source: www.jurist.org