The 57th Session of the Human Rights Council

9 September– 11 October, 2024

Item 2: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the Situation of Human Rights in Sudan

10 September 2024

By Jamel Nampijja / GICJ

Executive Summary

During the 57th Session of the Human Rights Council on the 10th of September, the Report of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan was presented by Mr Mohammed Chandi Othman, a member of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission, during the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the situation of Human Rights in Sudan at the 4th meeting of the regular sessions of the Human Rights Council. 

The report shed light on the catastrophic consequences of the ongoing conflict that erupted in April 2023, primarily between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The violent power struggle has led to severe humanitarian consequences, including widespread displacement, food insecurity, and grave human rights violations, particularly affecting women and children.

This report called for immediate international action, including establishing an arms embargo and supporting an independent judicial mechanism to investigate and prosecute human rights violations. The international community's commitment to upholding human rights, promoting accountability, and facilitating humanitarian assistance is crucial to alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people and ensuring a sustainable resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Throughout the Interactive Dialogue, representatives of member states expressed profound concern over the escalating violence and the urgent need for a coordinated international response. A recurring theme in the discussions was the need for an inclusive dialogue representing all Sudanese society, particularly marginalised groups. Several representatives echoed the call for a ceasefire and broader dialogue. Some representatives criticised the Human Rights Council's proceedings as biased and politicised. They advocated for a more respectful engagement with Sudan, suggesting that solutions to the crisis must ultimately come from the Sudanese people themselves. Representatives stressed the necessity of integrating human rights considerations into negotiations and the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict to prevent further violence.

Speaking on behalf of Sudan, Mr Alfatih Mohamed Eisa Tayfoor highlighted allegations of external interference, particularly the United Arab Emirates' support for militia groups, which he asserted exacerbates the conflict. 

Geneva International Centre for Justice is concerned over the persistent human rights and humanitarian crisis in Sudan, particularly the impact of violence on vulnerable populations, including women, children, and the elderly. GICJ calls on the parties to the conflict to cease all violence and commit to sustained peace talks and a renewed political framework agreement. We also call on humanitarian stakeholders to urgently have unhindered access to all Sudanese territory to deliver aid where it is desperately needed. 

Background of the Conflict in Sudan

The ongoing conflict in Sudan represents a culmination of historical grievances, political instability, and humanitarian crises that have persisted for decades. Since gaining independence from British-Egyptian rule in 1956, Sudan has struggled with a series of civil wars, ethnic tensions, and authoritarian regimes, significantly undermining the country's social fabric and political stability.

Historically, the roots of the conflict can be traced back to colonial policies that exacerbated ethnic and regional divisions, particularly between the north and south of the country. The first and second civil wars, lasting from 1955 to 1972 and 1983 to 2005, respectively, were fuelled by the desire for autonomy from central governance, leading to the eventual secession of South Sudan in 2011. During this time, the Darfur region experienced its devastating conflict, beginning in the early 2000s, characterised by widespread human rights violations and the government's use of militia groups, such as the Janjaweed, to suppress dissent.

The political landscape in Sudan underwent a significant shift in April 2019, when long-time President Omar al-Bashir was ousted following months of widespread protests against his regime. This led to a fragile power-sharing agreement between military leaders and civilian representatives aimed at transitioning to democratic governance. However, the subsequent coup in October 2021 by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the military dismantled this transitional government, reigniting protests and exacerbating an already volatile situation.

Since the outbreak of violent clashes in April 2023 between rival military factions, namely the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the conflict has intensified, resulting in widespread destruction, displacement, and loss of life. Civilians have become primary victims, facing severe humanitarian challenges as access to food, healthcare, and essential services has deteriorated. Reports of systemic human rights violations, including sexual violence, forced recruitment, and extrajudicial killings, have raised urgent calls for accountability and justice.

Approximately 47 million Sudanese face a humanitarian crisis marked by famine, mass displacement, and a collapse of essential services. The international community has increasingly expressed concern, emphasising the need for a comprehensive approach to restoring peace and stability. This includes advocating for ceasefire agreements, humanitarian assistance, and establishing independent mechanisms for investigation and accountability.

The continued violence and human suffering underscore the urgent necessity for a concerted international response aimed at supporting the Sudanese people's aspirations for peace, justice, and a sustainable future. 

In response to the human rights and humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing armed conflict in Sudan, the Human Rights Council (HRC), through resolution A/HRC/RES/54/2, established an independent international FFM for Sudan on the 11th of October, 2023. The FFM for Sudan aims to investigate and verify the facts, circumstances, and root causes of human rights and international humanitarian law violations and abuses, including those committed against refugees. All related crimes were viewed within the context of the ongoing armed conflict that began on the 15th of April, 2023, between the SAF and RSF, as well as other warring parties.

The Mission’s Mandate is to:

1. Collect, consolidate, and analyse evidence of human rights and international humanitarian law violations and abuses, including those affecting women and children, and systematically record and preserve all information, documentation and evidence.
2. Document and verify relevant information and evidence through filed engagement and cooperate with judicial and other entities.
3. Identify, where possible, those individuals and entities responsible for violations or abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law or other related crimes in Sudan to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
4. Make recommendations to end impunity, address its root causes, and ensure accountability, including, as appropriate, individual criminal responsibility and access to justice for victims.
5. Cooperate and share best practices with other international, regional and domestic accountability initiatives, as and when these are established.

Opening Remarks

Ms Nada Al-Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights 

Ms Al-Nashif outlined how the conflict in Sudan has spiralled out of control over the past 16 months. She stated that civilians are suffering the most, caught between hostilities involving the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and their allied armed groups. Despite commitments from both sides to protect civilians, these promises remain unfulfilled, with violations continuing unchecked. The conflict has severely affected civilian lives, resulting in thousands of casualties and widespread destruction of infrastructure critical to daily life, such as hospitals, schools, and markets. This destruction has further exacerbated economic and social hardships, depriving people of essential services and sources of livelihood.

Widespread Human Rights Violations 

Ms Al-Nashif emphasised the systematic violations of international humanitarian and human rights laws, which include indiscriminate attacks on civilians and the use of weapons that cause extensive damage in densely populated areas, with over 864 civilian deaths documented from June to August 2023 alone, demonstrating the scale of the crisis.

Sexual Violence as a Weapon of War

One of the most troubling aspects raised was the use of sexual violence as a deliberate tactic in the conflict. The UN documented 97 incidents involving 172 victims—primarily women and girls—which is acknowledged as a gross underrepresentation of the reality. The RSF and its allied militias were attributed responsibility for 81% of these incidents, with reports also implicating SAF troops. Ms Al-Nashif called on the warring parties to issue and enforce orders to prevent and punish sexual violence.

Ethnically Motivated Violence and Hate Speech 

Ethnic violence was identified as a growing concern, mainly targeting the Masalit community in the Darfur region. Ms Al-Nashif highlighted multiple accounts of ethnically motivated attacks, including summary executions, sexual violence, and forced displacement, primarily attributed to the RSF and Arab militias. This growing ethnic divide, especially the mobilisation of civilians along tribal lines, raises concerns about the potential for a broader ethnic civil war.

Arbitrary Detention and Ethnic Profiling 

Ms Al-Nashif highlighted the rising cases of arbitrary detention by both the SAF and RSF, often based on ethnic profiling or political affiliations. In some instances, military intelligence was responsible for these detentions, while others involved death sentences for individuals accused of supporting the RSF. This targeting of individuals based on tribal identity or perceived allegiances is a concerning trend that exacerbates the conflict’s ethnic dimension. 

Economic and Social Devastation 

Beyond the violence, Ms Al-Nashif drew attention to the devastating impact of the conflict on economic and social rights. Over 10.7 million people have been displaced within Sudan, with an additional 2.1 million fleeing to neighbouring countries. More than 25 million people are facing acute hunger, and Sudan is on the brink of famine. The destruction of homes, farmland, and infrastructure has left much of the population struggling to meet basic needs. She emphasised the catastrophic impact on essential rights such as food, housing, and education access.

Urgency of Humanitarian Access and Diplomatic Efforts

Ms Al-Nashif highlighted the difficulties humanitarian organisations and the UN faced in accessing affected areas due to bureaucratic obstacles, including delays in visa approvals for international staff. She emphasised the need for unhindered access to provide relief and support. She also mentioned recent diplomatic initiatives, including talks convened by the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy and efforts by the ALPS Group (Advancing Lifesaving and Peace in Sudan), which aim to foster dialogue and de-escalation.

Presentation of the Report

 

Mr Mohammed Chandi Othman, Member of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission

In the presentation of the report from the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan, Mr Othman offered a detailed account of the atrocities committed by both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023. 

Human Rights Violations and Atrocities - Widespread Violations by Both SAF and RSF

Mr. Othman stated that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have committed large-scale human rights violations and breaches of international humanitarian law. These include attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, such as homes, hospitals, and schools. Both sides have used heavy weaponry, such as airstrikes and artillery, in densely populated areas like Khartoum and Darfur, resulting in massive destruction and death.

Some of the violations were described as potentially amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity. The scale of these atrocities, which have affected 14 of Sudan’s 18 states, underscores the gravity of the conflict.

Freedom of Information and Humanitarian Obstruction - Internet Shutdown and Media Repression 

The SAF and RSF have imposed widespread internet shutdowns, curtailing freedom of information and expression. There have been targeted attacks on journalists, media outlets, and human rights defenders, further limiting the ability of the public to access information and report on the conflict. The repression of media and free speech was seen as a deliberate attempt to suppress information about the abuses occurring in Sudan.

Both parties were also found guilty of obstructing humanitarian aid, which has resulted in catastrophic consequences for civilians in desperate need of food, medical supplies, and shelter. Mr Othman condemned these actions as they directly violate international humanitarian law, which mandates the protection and assistance of civilians during conflict.

Additional Violations by RSF and Allied Militias

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence: The RSF and its allied militias were implicated explicitly in widespread sexual and gender-based violence, including rape, sexual slavery, and abduction. Mr. Othman noted that this violence has been used as a deliberate tactic of war, disproportionately affecting women and girls.

Recruitment of Child Soldiers: The RSF and affiliated militias were accused of recruiting and using children in hostilities, a severe violation of international law. The use of child soldiers exacerbates the already grim situation for Sudan's youth.

Pillage, Looting, and Ethnic-Based Attacks: Mr Othman pointed out that the RSF and allied militias engaged in large-scale looting and pillaging, further devastating communities. The RSF was also responsible for ethnic-based attacks, especially targeting the Massalit community in Darfur. These attacks included killings, torture, rape, and persecution based on ethnicity, contributing to the ethnic violence already tearing Sudan apart.

Humanitarian Crisis and Displacement - Mass Displacement and Humanitarian Crisis

Mr Othman presented stark statistics which showed that since the conflict began, thousands of civilians have been killed or injured, nearly 8 million people have been internally displaced, and 2.1 million have fled to neighbouring countries as refugees. Additionally, 25.6 million people are facing acute hunger, with the country approaching famine. He stressed that a sustainable ceasefire is urgently needed to allow the delivery of lifesaving humanitarian assistance to those in need.

Key Recommendations in the Report

The report put forward several crucial recommendations to address the escalating crisis in Sudan:

Mr Othman called for a sustainable ceasefire to stop the violence and enable the delivery of humanitarian aid. The ceasefire would also allow for the restoration of critical services and infrastructure, offering relief to millions suffering from the effects of the conflict.

He recommended the deployment of an independent and impartial international force to protect civilians. This force would have a clear mandate to ensure the safety of the civilian population, prevent further violence, and uphold international humanitarian law.

The report emphasised the need for all states and entities to comply with the existing arms embargo imposed by UN Security Council Resolution 1556. Given the widespread use of weapons in human rights violations, Mr. Othman recommended expanding the arms embargo to cover all of Sudan.

Mr Othman urged the extension of the ICC’s jurisdiction to cover the entire country of Sudan. This would allow prosecuting those most responsible for the atrocities and holding key perpetrators accountable. Furthermore, the speaker called for establishing a separate international judicial mechanism to work alongside the ICC, complementing its efforts to deliver justice.

Mr. Othman recommended the creation of a Victim Support and Reparations Office. This entity would be tasked with addressing the needs of victims, providing them with support, reparations, and justice. The establishment of this office was described as essential to helping survivors rebuild their lives and find closure.

He urged international actors, negotiators, and States with influence to consider the Fact-Finding Mission's findings and recommendations in their efforts to broker peace in Sudan.

The Country Concerned:

Mr Alfatih Mohamed Eisa Tayfoor, Attorney General of Sudan 

Acknowledgement of Leadership and Judicial Efforts

Mr. Tayfoor highlighted the Sudanese government’s judicial efforts, referencing the initiation of 18,741 lawsuits related to national and international humanitarian law violations. This extensive number of cases demonstrates Sudan's commitment to pursuing justice internally. Mr Tayfoor also emphasises that immunity was lifted from 43 individuals from regular forces under investigation, indicating that even military personnel are held accountable. Three hundred forty-six individuals have been declared fugitives, and the government has contacted six foreign countries to extradite these suspects, further proving their resolve to prevent impunity. 

Accusations Against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)

Mr. Tayfoor stated that the RSF is accused of committing widespread atrocities, including war crimes and crimes against humanity. He noted that the RSF committed genocide through systematic targeting of the Masalit ethnic group in West Darfur, where over 5,000 people were killed and more than 8,000 were injured. These figures reflect the scale of the violence that has been carried out, and the deliberate nature of the attacks suggests ethnic cleansing. The mutilation of Khamis Abkar, the Governor of West Darfur, after his arrest further underscores the brutal methods employed by the RSF. 

Mr. Tayfoor emphasised that 966 cases of rape and sexual violence have been documented, presenting a pattern of sexual violence used as a weapon of war—this systematic targeting of civilians, especially women and children.

Use of Child Soldiers

One of the most egregious violations committed by the RSF, according to Mr Tayfoor, is the forced recruitment of child soldiers. He stated that children, some as young as nine, have been recruited and accused into combat roles. Mr. Tayfoor stated that 4,850 children have been killed because of this forced conscription. Out of the 9,000 children forcibly recruited, only 30 have been returned to their families through efforts, involving the Sudanese Armed Forces and the International Committee of the Red Cross. 

Widespread Violations and Casualties

Mr Tayfoor stated that violations by the RSF extend beyond Darfur to other regions, such as Gezira and Sennar. Between June and August 2024, the RSF was accused of massacres and widespread looting, further contributing to the devastation in Sudan. The casualty numbers provided by the speaker are staggering, with 27,594 deaths and 42,661 injuries attributed to RSF actions across various regions.  

Extrajudicial Killings

In addition to the general violence, the RSF carried out extrajudicial killings, including the execution of 12 civilians in the Wadenobawi neighbourhood. Mr Tayfoor emphasised that the RSF is not merely engaged in combat but is also actively carrying out executions in cold blood, further escalating the severity of their crimes. 

Prison Breaks and Terrorist Links

He stated that the RSF’s actions have extended to attacking 36 prisons, releasing 19,481 inmates, including convicted terrorists, thus creating further instability by allowing dangerous individuals, some linked to terrorism, to escape custody. Mr Tayfoor claimed that the RSF is not only causing chaos within Sudan but is also recruiting mercenaries from 12 different countries, with 105 individuals linked to terrorist operations. He stated that RSF's activities paint them as a regional and global security threat beyond being a domestic militia. 


Ms. Alice Wairimu Nderitu, Special Advisor to the Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide

Ms Nderitu highlighted the alarming conditions and growing risk of genocide in Sudan due to the prolonged conflict:

Raising Alarms About Genocide

Ms Nderitu stated that since the start of the conflict in Sudan, she has issued nine statements addressing grave violations of international human rights and humanitarian law. The violence, which is increasingly taking on intercommunal and identity-based dimensions, suggests that the situation could potentially lead to genocide. She emphasised that there are clear indicators and risks of genocide, and while the crime may already have been committed, the objective of their mandate is to prevent it from progressing or worsening.

Conflict Overview and Impact on Civilians

Ms Nderitu painted a bleak picture of the ongoing violence, which has continued for more than 500 days with no resolution in sight. The warring parties in Sudan are fighting without concern for civilian protection, using heavy weaponry in densely populated areas, resulting in widespread destruction, looting, and displacement. Civilians are being disproportionately affected, facing indiscriminate attacks, airstrikes, torture, detention, and displacement. The violence is pervasive, stretching across multiple regions like Khartoum, Darfur, Kordofan, and Blue Nile.

Use of Sexual Violence and the Humanitarian Crisis

She stated that the conflict has led to rampant sexual violence, particularly against women and children, which is used as a tool of terror. She referenced data from the International Organization for Migration, highlighting that over 10.7 million people are internally displaced within Sudan, many of them displaced multiple times. In Darfur, famine was declared in August 2024, with more than half the population facing severe hunger, exacerbating the humanitarian disaster.

Hate Speech and Incitement of Violence

Ms Nderitu highlighted the hate speech and derogatory language used against certain ethnic groups, such as referring to them as "blacks" and "slaves." She stated that this language, amplified through social media, has been used to incite violence and glorify the perpetrators of these atrocities. She underscored that such hate speech campaigns are indicators of the intent to commit genocide and are contributing to the worsening conflict.

Continued Violence and Worsening Ethnic Cleavages

Ms Nderitu emphasised that the violence is spreading, particularly in regions like North Darfur, where there are reports of indiscriminate violence, sexual violence, and the destruction of property. Even internally displaced persons (IDP) camps and medical facilities have been targeted, affecting civilians from non-Arab communities, such as the Fur, Masalit, and Zaghawa, as well as Arab civilians. The violence is deepening ethnic divisions in the country, increasing the risks of reprisals and further conflict.

Impunity for Past Crimes

She stressed the lack of accountability for crimes committed in Darfur 20 years ago, where similar communities were targeted based on their ethnicity and race. The failure to hold perpetrators accountable for past atrocities has created fertile ground for the current violence to continue. This lack of justice has shattered the social fabric of the country, making it essential to urgently hold perpetrators accountable to prevent further genocide and related crimes.

Need for Accountability and Justice

Ms Nderitu stressed the importance of accountability in Sudan, arguing that justice is crucial for the countless victims and survivors. She advocated for the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission to continue its work in Sudan, collecting evidence and establishing the root causes of the violations. Supporting the Fact-Finding Mission is essential to achieving justice and laying the groundwork for rebuilding Sudan’s future.

Indicators of Genocide Still Present

Despite ongoing efforts by international bodies, the risk factors for genocide remain present and are only aggravating as the conflict continues. Ms Nderitu urged the international community to act decisively to prevent further atrocities, mentioning the efforts of critical organisations like the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the League of Arab States, alongside the UN Secretary-General's envoy for Sudan.


Mr. Abdel Salam Sidahmed, Chairperson of the Sudanese Human Rights Monitor

Mr. Sidahmed stated that since the establishment of the FFM, the scope of the conflict in Sudan has expanded significantly, along with violations of international humanitarian and human rights laws. The humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Sudan is not an unfortunate by-product of war, but the result of systematic atrocities and violations committed by the conflicting parties, particularly the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudan Armed Forces (SAF).

He highlighted that after over 500 days of war, it has become clear that this is a war of attrition against the Sudanese civilian population. Civilians are bearing the brunt of atrocities committed by both sides, with the RSF continuing to expand the conflict, invading new states, attacking towns and villages without military justification, and leaving behind destruction, mass displacement, and rampant sexual violence. The SAF, on the other hand, has been conducting airstrikes on populated areas, causing further harm to civilians and damaging crucial civilian infrastructure, including internally displaced persons (IDP) camps and hospitals.

Both parties to the conflict are responsible for extrajudicial killings, arrests, detentions, and torture of civilians, often accusing them of collaborating with the opposing side. The speaker presents a tragic example of Mohammed Azman Abu Rara, a young man who was displaced twice and arrested by both the RSF and SAF, eventually sentenced to death after an unfair trial. This case is emblematic of the widespread human suffering caused by the conflict.

Mr Sidahmed emphasised that behind the statistics of this conflict are real people—men, women, and children—whose lives have been shattered overnight. The international community must focus on these individuals and their right to justice, redress, and reparation. 

He called on the Human Rights Council to extend the FFM's mandate for another year as the conflict and violations continue. More investigations are necessary, including field visits to collect firsthand information and verify allegations. The FFM remains the only international body dedicated to accountability, evidence collection, and preservation across Sudan, making it essential to continue its work, complementing other international and regional mechanisms. 

Mr Sidahmed reiterated the call to extend the FFM mandate, noting that this request is supported by 50 international, regional, and national organisations and 74 Sudanese civil society and professional associations that have launched a campaign supporting this extension.

Interactive Dialogue

The representative of the European Union emphasised the importance of the Fact-Finding Mission in establishing accountability for human rights violations and atrocity crimes in Sudan since the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and allied armed groups. She highlighted several key issues, including ethnically targeted killings, arbitrary detentions, torture, recruitment of children into armed groups, and sexual and gender-based violence. She pointed out that famine has been confirmed in Sudan for the first time in seven years, further stressing the situation's urgency.

The representative called for adherence to the arms embargo and welcomed diplomatic efforts for a durable peace solution. She also emphasised the need to honour commitments made during the Paris International Humanitarian Conference on Sudan and called for improved humanitarian access and worker protection. 

The representative sought to understand how the international community could further support the FFM's efforts to end the culture of impunity in Sudan, underscoring the need for collaborative action to address these pressing issues.

The representative of New Zealand speaking on behalf of Australia and Canada, called for an immediate cessation of violence against civilians, stressing the urgent need for rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access to assist the millions affected by the conflict. She highlighted the necessity of stopping attacks on humanitarian workers and assets to ensure effective aid delivery. Additionally, she expressed disappointment that neither party participated in the recent U.S.-hosted talks in Geneva, reinforcing the need for negotiations and adherence to a ceasefire. The representative concluded by prompting the international community to consider how it can effectively mitigate the complex impact of the conflict on the people of Sudan. She emphasised the need for collective action to address the crisis.

The representative from Gambia, speaking on behalf of the African Group, highlighted the importance of African-led solutions to African problems, advocating for principles such as complementarity and subsidiarity. They welcomed regional mediation efforts and international support aimed at resolving the crisis, emphasising the necessity of a unified, coordinated international response led by the African Union (AU) in collaboration with the United Nations, the League of Arab States, and key international partners, all following a structured roadmap for peace.

The representative asserted that the immediate priority should be to silence the guns and achieve a ceasefire, essential for delivering much-needed humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflict. They urged all parties involved to adhere to the agreed-upon measures to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian assistance. Furthermore, the speaker called for dialogue among the conflicting parties to find a consensual solution to the political deadlock and guide the nation towards a peaceful transition to democracy. The African Group also urged the international community to support Sudan and acknowledged the government's cooperation with human rights mechanisms. Finally, they called for continued technical assistance from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to bolster these efforts.

The representative from Germany emphasised the alarming situation of children being recruited to fight and the horrific acts of murder, rape, torture, and mutilation occurring, often based on ethnic identity. The representative called for an immediate cessation of these violations and urged an end to arms deliveries, which only exacerbate the ongoing violence and suffering.

She also highlighted the rampant impunity in Sudan, which has led to a cycle of violence. She urged warring parties to facilitate humanitarian access and ensure the protection of humanitarian workers under international humanitarian law. She also urged neighbouring countries to support those fleeing Sudan and called on all parties to fulfil their commitments made at the Sudan conference in Paris. She also echoed the Fact-Finding Mission's calls for increased international engagement and expanded the International Criminal Court's (ICC) mandate.

The representative from Uganda expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has resulted in significant loss of life, destruction of property, and a humanitarian crisis. Uganda reiterated the urgent need for an immediate and permanent ceasefire to prevent further devastation. The representative emphasised the importance of increasing funding for humanitarian responses in Sudan and supporting the efforts of the National Committee for Investigations, highlighting the significance of the principle of complementarity in addressing the crisis.

She pointed out that after more than 500 days of conflict, the failure of foreign actors to find a resolution indicates that external solutions may not be effective for Sudan. She called on neighbouring countries to collaborate with the national committee to combat mercenary activities and war crimes, underscoring that the solution to the crisis ultimately lies with the Sudanese people and their respective warring parties. The representative stated that Uganda is committed to working closely with Sudan through bilateral relations and existing regional frameworks to help restore peace and stability.

The representative from Eritrea emphasised that any resolution to the conflict should strictly adhere to the principles of sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The representative pointed out that Sudan has consistently rejected Resolution 54/2, which mandates the Fact-Finding Mission, arguing that this resolution undermines the efforts of the Sudanese government and its national institutions.

The representative asserted that Sudan has the capacity to investigate violations and ensure accountability through its established institutions, questioning the Council's push for external mandates and suggesting that such actions might undermine genuine multilateralism and cooperation. She noted that Sudan has cooperated with various human rights mechanisms, a fact they believe should be recognised rather than ignored.

Additionally, she condemned the politicisation of human rights issues and the use of double standards to advance narrow political agendas. 

The representative of China emphasised the urgent need for a ceasefire to end the violence and stabilise the situation through dialogue and consultation to resolve the underlying issues.

The representative appreciated the Sudanese government's efforts to promote and protect human rights, mainly through establishing a national commission of inquiry to investigate human rights violations and foster constructive dialogue with international human rights mechanisms. He reiterated that the ultimate solution to Sudan's challenges lies with the Sudanese people, cautioning that imposing external human rights mechanisms against the government's will could further exacerbate divisions and complicate the situation.

He urged all parties involved to respect Sudan's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity and to work collaboratively towards a political resolution of the crisis to improve the human rights situation. 

The representative of North Korea expressed strong reservations regarding the Human Rights Council (HRC) proceedings concerning Sudan. The representative argued that a new approach to human rights issues should be taken only with the consent of the concerned country, emphasising that any action without such consent undermines the credibility of the Council.

He criticised the current debate as biased and based on resolutions disregarding national sovereignty and institutions crucial for achieving justice. Moreover, he characterised this as a violation of the principle of complementarity and highlighted Sudan's cooperation with international human rights mechanisms as being overlooked.

The representative called on the HRC to promote genuine cooperation with Sudan and conduct its work objectively and impartially, urging the Council to resist politicisation and double standards in its approach.

Concluding Remarks

In his closing remarks, Mr Alfatih Mohamed Eisa Tayfoor, the Attorney General of Sudan, criticised the Fact-Finding Mission, arguing that it operates more as a political entity than as an independent legal body. Mr Tayfoor questioned the legitimacy of the committee's recommendations for expanding the arms embargo on the Darfur region. He demanded immediate termination of its mandate to preserve the Council's integrity. He accused the UAE of continuing to support rebel militias in Sudan, with weapons and military supplies despite Sudan's complaints. He dismissed allegations from civil society organisations and assured that the Sudanese government’s ordinary national courts handle crimes in Sudan.

Mr. Abdel Salam Sidahmed, Chairperson of the Sudanese Human Rights Monitor, emphasised the importance of solidarity with the Sudanese people; stressing the need to support victims of ongoing conflict, acknowledge livelihood destruction, and support displaced or refugee populations. He argued that external actors do not threaten Sudan's national sovereignty but by those supporting the war with arms and funds. He condemned those demanding military bases in exchange for support, stating that achieving peace requires justice and holding warring parties accountable. He called for unity and humanity among  the Sudanese.

Ms Joyce Ngozi, a member of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan, emphasised the urgent need for accountability and support for victims of the ongoing conflict. She highlighted the abuses faced by Sudanese women and children, such as sexual violence, sexual slavery, and forced recruitment by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). 

She also highlighted that Sudan is not a party to international and regional agreements aimed at protecting women from discrimination and violence, such as the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa. Ms Ngozi warned that the brutality faced by victims could have severe psychological effects on the population, further destabilising the country. She stressed the importance of access to neighbouring countries for the Mission's work and the protection of Sudanese civilians.

Ms Mona Rishmawi, a member of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan, highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, including rising hunger and violent incidents. She called for comprehensive investigations involving all parties, as well as involvement and access to Sudan and its neighbouring countries. The conflict has regional implications, particularly affecting neighbouring countries like Chad. The speaker highlighted the disregard for civilian safety, particularly women and children, and the need for protective measures for civilians. 

She also mentioned ongoing communications with the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding international accountability and suggested extending its jurisdiction to Sudan. She proposed establishing an international judicial mechanism to work alongside the ICC and a victim support office to assist those affected by the conflict. 

She stressed the urgency of stopping the conflict, holding perpetrators accountable, and supporting the victims. She concluded by affirming that the 47 million people of Sudan deserve a concerted effort to address their dire circumstances and work towards peace and justice.

Ms Nada Al-Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, addressed various questions about the ongoing conflict in Sudan and the international community's role in mitigating its effects. She highlighted the importance of compliance with the Security Council's arms embargo in Darfur and the potential liability of arms-exporting countries under international human rights law for failing to prevent violations resulting from their arms transfers. 

She also addressed the Netherlands' question about integrating sexual and gender-based violence into their work, emphasising their efforts to monitor and report on conflict-related sexual violence and supporting the mandate of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

She emphasised the need for an independent and impartial mechanism, such as the Fact-Finding Mission, to ensure accountability for all perpetrators. She also stressed the urgent need for sustained engagement from the Human Rights Council regarding the escalating hostilities and violations committed in Sudan, emphasising that these efforts should work together.

Achieving sustainable peace in Sudan requires ensuring accountability, as it is essential to breaking the recurring cycles of violence and delivering justice, dignity, and equality to the Sudanese people.

Position of Geneva International Centre for Justice

GICJ is concerned over the ongoing human rights and humanitarian crisis in Sudan. This violence exacerbates an already dire humanitarian situation, with alarming reports of gross human rights violations committed by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).

Therefore, GICJ calls on all parties involved in the conflict to immediately cease hostilities, respect international human rights and humanitarian law, and ensure unimpeded access to humanitarian aid for millions in need. GICJ emphasises the need to protect civilians, aid workers, and medical personnel amidst the crisis.

The GICJ welcomes the efforts of the European Union and the African Union, particularly the Jeddah agreements, in addressing the situation. Additionally, we commend the Sudanese government for its continued engagement with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Furthermore, GICJ stresses that lasting peace in Sudan can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue, respect for human rights, and genuine national reconciliation efforts.

Additionally, the conclusions drawn by the Fact-Finding Mission stress the need for immediate and coordinated international action to address the grave human rights violations committed by all parties involved in the conflict. Therefore, it is imperative that the international community rallies to enforce an arms embargo and to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those in dire need. 

We must recognise that sustainable peace in Sudan cannot be achieved without addressing the underlying issues of impunity and ensuring accountability for those who commit crimes against humanity. Establishing an independent judicial mechanism in conjunction with the ICC is essential to restoring justice and facilitating reconciliation among the diverse communities in Sudan.

Moreover, the Sudanese people aspire for a peaceful, inclusive, and rights-respecting society and must be at the forefront of our efforts. As we move forward, it is crucial to foster dialogue that includes all segments of society, particularly women and youth, in shaping the future of their country. 

The GICJ calls on the international community to remain steadfast in its support for these efforts, as the people of Sudan deserve nothing less than a future free from violence and filled with hope for prosperity and equality.