HRC54 - Interactive Dialogue on High Commissioner Oral Update on Sudan - EU Statement
European External Action Service (EEAS)
12.09.2023
Geneva
Press and information team of the Delegation to the UN in Geneva
United Nations Human Rights Council
54th Session
Interactive Dialogue on High Commissioner Oral Update on Sudan
12 September 2023
EU Statement
Mr President, Mr High-Commissioner,
The European Union remains deeply concerned about the developments in Sudan. The EU is particularly concerned about the reports of large-scale attacks on civilians and civilian areas, including on the basis of ethnicity, with horrific reports of widespread sexual and gender based violence, targeted killings, forced displacement - including as an objective of the conflict - and steady weaponisation of militias. The rising number of civilian deaths attributable to the disproportionate use of aerial bombardment by the conflict parties is also of grave concern. There are credible reports that violations and abuses which may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity continue to be committed, particularly in Darfur. We are appalled by the brutality and total disregard shown by the warrying parties towards civilians. We underline the importance of accountability for all violations and abuses being committed throughout Sudan, recalling that the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court is undertaking investigations with respect to incidents occurring within the current hostilities in Darfur.
Millions are on the brink of famine, with life-saving assistance not reaching those in need. For millions of Sudanese life has become unbearable, without any relief in sight. We are very alarmed by the children killed or injured by the conflict and millions of children displaced, and their future jeopardised. This conflict is about to delete what the people in Sudan have been trying to build over the last decade.
The EU calls on all parties to immediately end the fighting, protect civilians, guarantee full, safe and unimpeded humanitarian access and resume the transition to democracy and civilian rule. We strongly condemn the continued refusal of the parties to the conflict to seek a peaceful solution. A lasting ceasefire must be brokered without delay to guarantee the protection of the people of Sudan, whose safety, security and unity continues to be endangered, and to allow space for mediation and an inclusive political dialogue to take place.
Mr High Commissioner,
What meaningful steps can this Council take to ensure accountability for the atrocities committed in Sudan since the start of the current conflict?
Thank you.
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