Urgent Call for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid in Sudan

During the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, exacerbated by conflict and aid obstruction, the Human Rights Council has called for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access, and international support, especially for women-led initiatives. High Commissioner Turk condemned human rights abuses, urging political solutions and accountability. Civil society groups urge the UN Security Council to protect civilians amid escalating violence.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, exacerbated by armed conflict and obstructions to aid delivery, necessitates an immediate ceasefire, the opening of humanitarian corridors, and robust international support for local efforts, especially those spearheaded by women’s groups. A joint statement was presented during the Human Rights Council’s recent interactive dialogue, reflecting these urgent calls.

During the HRC58 debate, the High Commissioner condemned human rights violations, including indiscriminate civilian assaults and child soldier recruitment, which could amount to war crimes. He urged for immediate international actions to achieve a ceasefire, ensure humanitarian access, enforce arms embargoes, and promote a political resolution that incorporates all Sudanese perspectives, emphasizing the dire need for accountability to break the prevailing cycle of violence.

Adama Dieng, the African Union Special Envoy, emphasized the necessity for collective action to exert pressure on conflicting parties, recommending sanctions against major violators of human rights. Meanwhile, Hanaa Eltigani, a Sudanese civil society representative, reiterated the demand for freedom, peace, and justice, asserting that no factional interests would diminish these aspirations.

The debate highlighted a global consensus on the urgency of protecting civilians and humanitarian workers while enabling unhindered aid deliveries. Delegates from several nations, including South Africa and Greece, advocated for curbing the arms flow and ceasing foreign interventions fueling the conflict, reflecting wide-ranging concerns over the humanitarian situation.

Sudan faces a severe humanitarian crisis driven by a deliberate famine, authorized by combatants, which blocks aid and access to food. Millions trapped within RSF- and SAF-controlled areas are unable to access necessary relief, with women and girls bearing the heaviest burden from these war crimes. Community-led initiatives have emerged as critical lifelines despite facing significant threats.

It is crucial that the international community urges warring factions for an immediate ceasefire, protection of civilians, and the establishment of safe humanitarian corridors. Moreover, increased funding for local humanitarian groups and urgent documentation of aid obstructions and starvation as a weapon of war are necessary actions for relief.

Civil society groups, over a hundred strong, have called for the UN Security Council’s immediate attention to protect civilians. Reports of increased militarization and reduced civic space further threaten human rights defenders, particularly women, warranting decisive and protective actions from the international community.

The humanitarian crisis in Sudan remains critical, with calls for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian assistance. There is an urgent need for international intervention to protect civilians, especially women and girls who are disproportionately affected by the conflict. Collective actions and accountability measures are vital to alleviating the suffering and restoring humanitarian access in the region.

Original Source: ishr.ch