Statement: Urgent Call for Action Against War Crimes, Crimes Against Humanity, and Ethnic Cleansing in Sudan

The Sudan International Human Rights Organization (SIHRO), dedicated to protecting and promoting human rights in Sudan, is deeply troubled by the recent determinations made by the U.S. State Department regarding the catastrophic situation in our country.

Since April 15, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been engaged in brutal acts of violence, resulting in unspeakable suffering among civilians. These acts include systematic abuses and killings at SAF and RSF detention sites, rampant sexual violence against women and girls, and targeted attacks on Masalit civilians, reminiscent of the horrors witnessed during the Darfur genocide nearly two decades ago.

We concur with the U.S. State Department’s determination that these acts by the SAF, RSF, and their allied militias constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity, and ethnic cleansing. This acknowledgment, while validating the suffering of countless victims, also demands immediate and concrete international action.

SIHRO urgently calls for:

1. Immediate Cessation of Hostilities: The SAF and RSF must halt their violent campaign and respect international humanitarian and human rights laws.
2. Accountability for Perpetrators: Those responsible for these heinous crimes must be held accountable. Impunity must end to ensure justice for victims and the restoration of peace.
3. Unhindered Humanitarian Access: Unrestricted humanitarian aid is crucial to address the growing crisis and assist the affected communities.
4. International Solidarity and Support: We urge the African Union and the international community to intensify efforts to end the violence and provide necessary support for a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
5. Empowering Justice Mechanisms: Support should be extended to strengthen domestic and international justice mechanisms to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.

This determination by the U.S. State Department underscores the severity of the situation in Sudan. It is a call to action for the global community. SIHRO stands ready to collaborate with international partners to address this crisis, seek justice for the victims, and work towards a future where the rights and dignity of all Sudanese are respected and protected.

Together, we must act now to end the cycle of violence and bring about lasting peace and justice in Sudan.