MSF Calls for Action as Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan Worsens

Christopher Lockyear of MSF briefed the UN Security Council on the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, describing the conflict as a catastrophic “war on people” characterized by violence against civilians. He called for an urgent commitment to delivering humanitarian aid and highlighted the need for a unified global response to protect vulnerable populations in the region.

On October 16, 2023, Christopher Lockyear, Secretary General of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), addressed the UN Security Council regarding the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan. He emphasized the urgent need for an end to violence against civilians and called for a renewed commitment to deliver lifesaving aid. Lockyear described the ongoing conflict as a catastrophic “war on people,” marked by indiscriminate bombings, systematic brutality, and severe criminal acts against civilians.

In his remarks, Lockyear detailed the atrocities committed by both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, including bombings of civilian areas, abductions, and sexual violence. He highlighted the devastating impact on vital civilian infrastructure and humanitarian aid access, describing how towns have been laid siege, blocking necessary aid efforts. MSF continues to provide medical care across 11 states in Sudan, reporting alarming rates of malnutrition and rising infectious diseases.

Lockyear criticized the inadequate international response to the crisis, attributing it to a lack of accountability, resources, and decisive leadership. He urged a fundamental change in approach to protect civilians and fulfill humanitarian needs, stating, “The crisis in Sudan demands a fundamental shift away from the failed approaches of the past; millions of lives depend on it.” He expressed deep concern for the ongoing suffering of civilians, which, despite declarations of commitment, remains unseen and unaddressed.

Describing his recent experience in Sudan, Lockyear painted a grim picture of the healthcare situation facing civilians. He recounted witnessing overwhelming casualties at MSF-supported hospitals due to conflict-related injuries, emphasizing the dire conditions facing health facilities. Further, he pointed to the collapse of aid infrastructure and bureaucratic hurdles complicating access to those in need, despite meager improvements in distribution access.

Lockyear reported that various humanitarian operatives are facing significant impediments to delivering aid, especially in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces, which are imposing unreasonable demands and delays on aid convoys. He underscored the urgent need for a new compact to protect civilians and facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access, warning that the current bureaucracy continues to paralyze effective response efforts.

The ongoing violence continues to exacerbate humanitarian emergencies in Sudan, with Lockyear highlighting the exponential increase in violence against civilians, particularly women and children. He advocated for immediate intervention and implementation of robust mechanisms to uphold international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations.

Lockyear concluded with an urgent appeal to international stakeholders, emphasizing that decisive action must replace ineffective responses. He called for enhanced funding and a more decisive mandate for UN humanitarian operations in Sudan. He reminded the Council that the upcoming rainy season could intensify the food crisis, stressing that swift action is essential to alleviate the suffering of millions impacted by this prolonged conflict.

The address by Christopher Lockyear underscored the urgent humanitarian crisis in Sudan, marking the ongoing conflict as a severe threat to civilian lives. He called for a fundamental shift in international approaches to humanitarian aid, highlighting the need for a coordinated response to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian assistance. Without immediate action and increased resource allocation, the suffering faced by millions in Sudan is likely to deepen, necessitating a new commitment from the international community.

Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.org