The UN warns of a looming famine in Sudan amid ongoing conflicts, as the World Food Programme suspends operations. Reports reveal mass displacement and attacks on civilians, including heightened risks of sexual violence. Urgent international diplomatic efforts are necessary for a ceasefire and to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery.
The UN has raised alarms about the looming famine in Sudan, primarily due to intense fighting that has necessitated the World Food Programme’s operational suspension in North Darfur. UN Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, highlighted in Geneva that five additional areas might experience famine within the next three months, impacting 17 more at risk. The situation has led to 8.8 million individuals being displaced, alongside 3.5 million who have fled to neighboring countries.
The conflict involves the Sudanese paramilitary group, Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which recently attacked villages in the White Nile state, resulting in numerous casualties. This violence is part of a broader conflict involving combat between the RSF and the government, initiated in 2023, contributing to civilian hardships. Human Rights Watch also documented civilian attacks, highlighting a trend of escalating violence.
Targeting civilians in military operations contravenes humanitarian law, specifically the principle of distinction outlined in the Geneva Conventions. The International Court of Justice underscores that protecting civilians and distinguishing combatants from non-combatants are fundamental humanitarian law principles. Violations of Common Article 3 can constitute war crimes, with the UN Security Council urging investigations into such acts in Darfur since 2002.
The violence, often driven by ethnic divisions, disproportionately affects women and children, with reports of sexual violence, including gang rapes. Stigmas surrounding such crimes mean the actual data may be significantly underestimated. Medical facilities are currently operating at just 30 percent capacity, while the judicial system in Sudan has collapsed, exacerbating the crisis. Turk also warned that ongoing conflict could destabilize the wider Horn of Africa, the Sahel, and even the global community.
Turk emphasized the need for international collaboration, urging all nations to exert diplomatic pressure on involved parties and their allies to establish a ceasefire. Effective measures for civilian protection and unhindered humanitarian aid delivery must be prioritized to address the escalating humanitarian crisis.
The UN has issued a grave warning regarding the imminent famine crisis in Sudan due to ongoing violent conflicts, particularly the operations suspended by the World Food Programme. Displacement of millions and severe humanitarian issues, including the targeting of civilians and escalating sexual violence, highlight the urgent need for international intervention. Protecting civilians and facilitating humanitarian aid are crucial to stabilizing the region and mitigating the worsening crisis.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
