UN Human Rights Chief Warns of Imminent Famine Crisis in Sudan Amid Conflict
The UN has warned of a potential famine crisis in Sudan due to escalating violence from paramilitary conflicts, which have displaced millions and caused humanitarian aid disruptions. The UN Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, urged for immediate international diplomatic pressure for a ceasefire and the protection of civilians amidst widespread human rights violations.
The United Nations has raised an alarm over the looming famine crisis in Sudan due to intensifying paramilitary conflicts which have severely disrupted humanitarian operations, particularly in North Darfur where the World Food Programme had to halt its aid efforts. The UN Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, indicated that five additional areas may face famine imminently, while 17 others are similarly at risk.
The ongoing violence has resulted in the displacement of approximately 8.8 million individuals within Sudan, alongside 3.5 million others who have sought refuge in neighboring countries. The situation has been exacerbated by recent assaults by the paramilitary group, Rapid Support Forces (RSF), targeting villages in the White Nile state, leading to a significant death toll.
In light of the non-international armed conflicts occurring in Sudan, deliberate attacks on civilians contravene humanitarian law, as stated in the Geneva Conventions. The International Court of Justice has emphasized that safeguarding the civilian populace is a fundamental principle of humanitarian law and breaches of this nature are classified as war crimes under the Rome Statute.
Incidents of violence are frequently motivated by ethnic tensions, disproportionately impacting vulnerable groups, including women and children, and often involve sexual violence. The UN has acknowledged that reports on sexual violence may be understated due to pervasive stigma. Meanwhile, the overall health crisis has seen medical facilities functioning at only 30 percent capacity, further complicating the humanitarian response.
Volker Turk has warned that the enduring conflict poses significant threats not only to Sudan’s stability but also to the broader Horn of Africa region and beyond. He has called for all nations to apply diplomatic pressure aimed at facilitating a ceasefire, protecting civilians effectively, and ensuring unobstructed humanitarian assistance.
In summary, the UN’s warnings highlight the dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan amid ongoing conflicts. The situation has led to potential famine threats affecting millions, severe human rights violations, and a deteriorating healthcare system. Urgent international intervention and diplomatic efforts are essential to protect civilians and stabilize the region.
Original Source: www.jurist.org