Rédaction Africa Links 24 with umajulius
Published on 2024-04-12 07:21:06
On April 11, 2024, a United Nations fact-finding mission in Geneva called for an immediate cease-fire in Sudan’s ongoing deadly conflict, which has been raging for over a year. The mission emphasized the need to end attacks on civilians and ensure unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance for millions of people in desperate need.
The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has resulted in the deaths of thousands of civilians and the displacement of over six million people since April 15, 2023. While almost two million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, approximately 24 million people are in need of humanitarian aid, with 18 million suffering from crisis levels of food insecurity.
Mohamed Chande Othman, chair of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan, expressed the urgent need for the war to stop. He called on the warring parties to cease all violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, and ensure accountability for human rights violations.
The mission raised concerns about attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, which may violate international humanitarian law. Reports of attacks on aid convoys and looting of humanitarian supplies have also been investigated.
Mona Rishmawi, an expert member of the mission, highlighted the importance of safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to civilian populations in need. The mission is also investigating reports of deliberate blocking of humanitarian assistance to civilians in areas controlled by opposing forces.
Food security analysts warned of a looming famine, especially in parts of the Darfur region, due to drops in cereal harvests and soaring grain prices in war-affected areas. The upcoming International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and its Neighbors in Paris is seen as a crucial opportunity to address the funding shortfall needed to tackle the crisis.
The experts called for an immediate ceasefire and urged the warring parties to engage in a comprehensive peace process. They also urged UN member states to use their influence to restore peace, justice, and democracy in Sudan.
The mission reiterated its commitment to uncovering the facts, circumstances, and root causes of violations committed during the conflict and holding responsible individuals and entities accountable. Othman emphasized the need for the warring parties to prioritize peace and human rights in Sudan.
Established by the Human Rights Council in October 2023, the Fact-Finding Mission is tasked with investigating human rights violations and abuses, violations of international humanitarian law, and related crimes in the context of the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The mission stands firm in its dedication to seeking justice for the Sudanese people who have suffered enough.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
