Urgent Call for Humanitarian Action in Sudan: MSF Briefs UN Security Council

Christopher Lockyear, Secretary General of MSF, urged the UN Security Council to take immediate action regarding the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which has persisted for two years amidst violence and famine. He highlighted the severe civilian suffering, the responsibility of conflict parties, and the need for a new framework prioritizing civilian protection and humanitarian access.

On a recent occasion, Christopher Lockyear, the Secretary General of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), addressed the United Nations Security Council, emphasizing the dire situation in Sudan due to two consecutive years of conflict marked by violence, displacement, and famine. He reported on the immense suffering experienced by millions, urging the Council to take immediate action to alleviate the humanitarian crisis. Lockyear’s briefing outlined the grievous impact of ongoing violence and highlighted the responsibility of conflicting parties, particularly the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces, in exacerbating civilian suffering.

Lockyear shared harrowing experiences from his visit to Khartoum State, where he witnessed firsthand the catastrophic injuries suffered by civilians at the Al-Nao hospital following shelling in Omdurman. He recounted similar incidents in South Darfur, where civilian areas and humanitarian sites have become battlegrounds, overwhelming healthcare facilities and leaving communities devastated. The destruction of vital infrastructure has compounded the crisis, pushing already vulnerable populations further into despair.

The violence has also resulted in horrific levels of sexual violence and targeted attacks against specific communities, particularly the Masalit in West Darfur. Reports indicate that humanitarian services are being heavily restricted, complicating relief efforts as organizations struggle to navigate bureaucratic hurdles and threats of violence. MSF currently operates in more than 22 hospitals and 42 health facilities across Sudan but faces significant challenges in providing care amidst persistent aggression.

Despite some progress in humanitarian access, Lockyear stressed that the gains are inadequate compared to the overwhelming humanitarian needs. He criticized the prevailing bureaucratic impediments and the manipulative tactics employed by armed groups that complicate aid delivery. He underscored the necessity for immediate action to address these barriers to ensure the effective distribution of humanitarian assistance.

Lockyear called for a shift in the approach of the international community, arguing that the ineffectiveness of past strategies has led to worsening conditions for civilians. He emphasized the requirement for a new compact prioritizing civilian protection and operational independence for aid organizations. This new framework would need to enforce an end to restrictions on humanitarian aid, thereby prioritizing the survival and dignity of the Sudanese people.

He concluded by urging donors and UN authorities to enhance their support, emphasizing the urgent need for increased funding and a proactive approach to reinvigorate humanitarian operations in Sudan. With the impending rainy season and growing hunger, the situation demands decisive action and a commitment to fundamentally reform the response strategies in place.

In summary, the situation in Sudan necessitates immediate attention from the international community, as articulated by Christopher Lockyear from MSF. The prolonged violence has led to widespread suffering, displacement, and dire humanitarian needs. The need for a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes civilian protection and facilitates unobstructed humanitarian aid is critical. Urgent action, enhanced funding, and proactive engagement from the United Nations are essential to address this escalating crisis effectively.

Original Source: www.msf.org