The report from the Joint UN Human Rights Office highlights the extensive human rights violations faced by Sudanese refugees in South Sudan due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Findings indicate numerous atrocities, including killings, sexual violence, and enforced disappearances, particularly affecting the Khartoum and Darfur regions. The weakened authority in these areas hampers the protection of civilians and the enforcement of IHL and IHRL principles.
This report outlines the findings from a nine-day monitoring mission conducted by the Joint UN Human Rights Office in Sudan to South Sudan from November 21 to 30, 2023. The objective was to assess the human rights conditions and protect the rights of Sudanese refugees fleeing the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The mission revealed extensive violations of international human rights law (IHRL) and humanitarian law (IHL), including indiscriminate attacks, killings, sexual violence, and enforced disappearances. Approximately sixty-seven civilians, comprising predominantly men, women, and children, were tragically killed, primarily in the Khartoum and Darfur regions, with some attacks linked to ethnic and political targeting.
While monitoring the situation, the team documented cases of torture, sexual violence, looting, and destruction of civilian property. Despite the ongoing tensions, the report highlights a concerning deterioration in state authority within affected areas, particularly in Darfur and Khartoum, which hinders the capacity of governing bodies to prevent human rights violations and protect civilians effectively. The assessment was conducted in accordance with treaties established under the Host Country Agreement with the UN Human Rights Office, with the intention to uphold accountability and advocate for the rights of vulnerable populations.
The need for significant international attention and intervention continues as these acts suggest a blatant disregard for international norms by the conflicting parties. The report emphasizes the urgent requirement for accountability mechanisms to address the vast array of human rights violations that have surfaced amidst this ongoing conflict.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which erupted on April 15, 2023, has led to a significant refugee crisis in neighboring South Sudan. The Joint UN Human Rights Office’s mission aims to investigate the human rights violations stemming from hostilities primarily between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Amidst a backdrop of violence, many Sudanese civilians have fled their homes, seeking protection in South Sudan and facing dire conditions as they navigate this humanitarian crisis. This mission serves to document and report on these urgent human rights issues, reflecting on the responsibilities of international stakeholders.
In summary, the Joint UN Human Rights Office’s November 2023 report underscores severe and systemic human rights violations perpetrated during the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Significant civilian casualties and the erosion of state authority indicate a critical need for renewed international efforts to ensure accountability and the protection of civilians. This mission reaffirms the obligations of all parties to adhere to international humanitarian laws and respect human rights, urging prompt action to address these grave concerns.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
