The article discusses the dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan, emphasizing the need for an immediate ceasefire, protection of civilians, and establishment of humanitarian corridors. During a Human Rights Council dialogue, statements highlighted widespread human rights violations and called for urgent international support, especially for women-led initiatives. The looming famine and conflict-driven obstruction of aid illuminate the critical condition in the region, necessitating collective action from the international community to safeguard peace and deliver humanitarian assistance.
During the Human Rights Council’s enhanced dialogue concerning Sudan’s dire humanitarian situation, the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) delivered a significant joint statement alongside the Sudanese Women’s Rights Action (SURWA) and the WHRDMENA Coalition. The statement urgently calls for an immediate ceasefire, the establishment of humanitarian corridors, and enhanced international support for grassroots humanitarian endeavors, particularly those spearheaded by women’s organizations.
The High Commissioner addressed the humanitarian crisis, decrying extensive human rights violations including indiscriminate assaults on civilians and instances of sexual violence. He underscored the grave situation, noting reports of attacks on journalists and civil society members, and correlated these circumstances with potential war crimes. Immediate international action is essential to secure a ceasefire and enforce arms embargoes, he urged.
The African Union’s Special Envoy on the Prevention of Genocide, Adama Dieng, emphasized the pressing need for collective action to pressure warring factions into compliance with humanitarian norms. He called upon those in influential positions to impose sanctions against violators of international humanitarian law.
Sudanese civil society representative Hanaa Eltigani echoed these sentiments, stating, “Our demands remain the same: freedom, peace, and justice. No war, no armed faction, no internal or external agenda will erase that.” The debate underscored the critical nature of the crisis, with numerous nations advocating for the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers while demanding accountability for the ongoing atrocities.
The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate as floods, cholera outbreaks, and armed conflict exacerbate conditions. A famine instigated by fighting factions reflects the manipulation of aid access and resources as tools of war, severely impacting millions, especially women and children.
Local initiatives, primarily led by women’s groups, have created vital humanitarian efforts such as communal kitchens, yet they operate under perilous conditions, often facing prosecution and threats. Despite these challenges, such grassroots organizations are essential lifelines in regions denied international aid.
A call to action is made for states to advocate for a cessation of hostilities, protection of health workers, and the creation of secure humanitarian corridors, all while condemning the theft and diversion of aid. Furthermore, the international community is urged to enhance funding for local humanitarian charities and ensure investigations into alleged corruption in aid delivery.
Civil society remains vigilant regarding the threats posed to freedom of speech and civic engagement in Sudan, particularly concerning women’s rights defenders. The collective plea from over one hundred organizations calls on the UN Security Council for urgent intervention to safeguard civilians from war crimes and establish a sustainable peace in the region.
The situation in Sudan demands urgent international attention to halt the ongoing humanitarian crisis marked by armed conflict, famine, and severe human rights violations. The calls for an immediate ceasefire, the protection of civilians, and the establishment of safe humanitarian corridors highlight the need for a collaborative international response. Grassroots efforts, particularly by women’s organizations, play a crucial role in addressing immediate humanitarian needs despite facing significant challenges. It is imperative that the international community acts decisively to protect vulnerable populations and support those working on the ground.
Original Source: ishr.ch
