Christopher Lockyear of MSF briefed the UN Security Council on the humanitarian disaster in Sudan, characterizing the conflict as a “war on people” due to widespread violence against civilians. He called for an end to hostilities and emphasized the necessity for improved humanitarian aid delivery to combat severe malnutrition and disease amid the ongoing crisis.
Recently, Christopher Lockyear, Secretary General of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), briefed the United Nations Security Council regarding the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan caused by ongoing conflict. He emphasized the necessity for an immediate cessation of violence directed at civilians and called for a renewed commitment to providing essential aid to those affected by the crisis.
Lockyear declared that the conflict in Sudan represents a “war on people” with the Sudanese Armed Forces conducting indiscriminate bombings in populated areas. The Rapid Support Forces, along with allied militias, have engaged in violent acts including widespread sexual violence, abductions, and mass killings while obstructing humanitarian aid and attacking medical facilities. Both conflict parties have besieged towns, undermining crucial civilian infrastructure and the distribution of humanitarian assistance.
In this context, MSF continues to deliver medical care across 11 states within Sudan, adhering to humanitarian principles. MSF teams reported alarming rates of malnutrition and a resurgence of infectious diseases in war-affected areas. As the rainy season approaches, the urgency of providing food and medical supplies to those in need has intensified.
The organization’s message to the Security Council stresses that the conflict cannot persist without regard for civilian lives. Lockyear noted the inadequacy of the international response, attributing it to obstructions from the warring parties and a lack of accountability. He lamented the ongoing humanitarian crisis, stating, “While statements are made in this chamber, civilians remain unseen, unprotected, bombed, besieged, raped, displaced, deprived of food, of medical care, of dignity.”
Lockyear advocates for a paradigm shift in addressing the crisis, emphasizing that a new approach to humanitarian response is critical. He asserted, “The crisis in Sudan demands a fundamental shift away from the failed approaches of the past. Millions of lives depend on it.”
In conclusion, the UN Security Council briefing by MSF’s Secretary General Christopher Lockyear confronts the appalling humanitarian disaster in Sudan. The ongoing violence poses severe threats to civilian safety and access to essential services. Immediate and increased commitment from the international community is paramount to protect lives and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid. Lockyear’s call for a new strategic approach reinforces the urgent need for effective action in the region.
Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.ca
