Rédaction Africa Links 24 with umajulius
Published on 2024-03-27 08:13:11
On March 27, 2024, in Geneva, the United Kingdom’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Simon Manley, highlighted the importance of ensuring the security of humanitarian actors in Sudan. He emphasized the need for warring parties to refrain from diverting life-saving supplies for their own benefit. The statement was made during a session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, where 44 UN countries signed a joint statement on Sudan Humanitarian Access on behalf of the Troika for Sudan, which includes the USA, Norway, and the United Kingdom.
The signatories of the joint statement expressed their concern over the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has left nearly 18 million people facing crisis levels of food insecurity. Humanitarian workers are facing challenges in reaching the people in need, and the longer the conflict persists, the greater the need becomes.
The joint statement called for all parties to observe a Ramadan ceasefire in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2724. It specifically addressed the Sudanese Armed Forces’ withdrawal of permission for aid deliveries through major crossing points from Chad into Darfur, stating that such actions are indefensible and only worsen the suffering of civilians in Darfur, who have already endured relentless atrocities by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The signatories urged the SAF to uphold their commitments to facilitate cross-line and cross-border operations, reopen the Adre crossing point, and refrain from any measures that hinder life-saving aid reaching those in need. The vital work of local responders, UN agencies, and international partners must be allowed to proceed without interference.
The joint statement emphasized the importance of complying with obligations under international humanitarian law and the Jeddah Declaration to ensure full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access. This is crucial in protecting Sudan’s people from further suffering and death.
Concerns were raised about the potential increase in food insecurity levels in Sudan if humanitarian assistance is prevented from reaching those in need. The joint statement underscored the urgency of addressing these challenges to prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Sudan.
Overall, the joint statement issued by the United Kingdom official at the United Nations highlights the critical need for all parties involved in the conflict in Sudan to prioritize the well-being and safety of civilians and ensure access for humanitarian actors to deliver life-saving assistance to those in need. Collaboration and commitment from all parties are essential to alleviate the suffering of the people of Sudan and work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
