MSF Secretary General Christopher Lockyear briefed the UN Security Council on the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, describing it as a “war on people.” The briefing highlighted severe civilian impact from ongoing violence, particularly from the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces. Lockyear urged for new commitment and immediate action to protect civilians and deliver humanitarian aid, underlining alarming health conditions and malnutrition amid the conflict.
Christopher Lockyear, Secretary General of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), addressed the UN Security Council regarding Sudan’s humanitarian crisis. He emphasized the urgent need to halt violence against civilians and enhance the delivery of essential aid amid what he describes as a catastrophic “war on people.” The Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces have caused widespread suffering, inflicting bombings on populated areas and a range of atrocities including sexual violence and mass killings.
MSF operates across 11 states in Sudan, adhering to humanitarian principles to provide medical care. Lockyear reported alarming malnutrition levels and rising cases of infectious diseases. With the impending rainy season, it is critical to ensure that affected populations receive necessary food and medical supplies promptly. The ongoing violence and deliberate targeting of civilians have severely hindered humanitarian efforts, leading to a lack of accountability and resources.
Lockyear criticized the international response as inadequate, stating that after nearly two years of conflict, lack of effective measures has left civilians in dire situations. He insisted that a new commitment is essential to protect civilians and meet their humanitarian needs. Stating that millions of lives are in jeopardy, he called for a fundamental shift from previous ineffective strategies in addressing the crisis in Sudan.
To underscore his message, Lockyear pointed out the ongoing suffering of Sudan’s civilians despite verbal commitments made at the UN. He urged for immediate action to alleviate this suffering, emphasizing that the humanitarian response is paralyzed by bureaucratic obstacles and insecurity. Demand for a collective action to address the dire circumstances is higher than ever, as mentioned by Lockyear, reflecting the catastrophic nature of the ongoing war.
The urgent briefing by MSF highlights the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where both sides of the conflict severely impact civilian life. Immediate international action and a shift in strategies to protect civilians and enhance humanitarian efforts are vital. Addressing malnutrition and disease amidst violence is crucial to prevent further deterioration of conditions for millions affected by the conflict.
Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.ca
