Urgent Call for Solidarity and Support in Addressing the Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan

Date: December 9, 2023
Location: Djibouti, Republic of Djibouti

Introduction:
On December 9, 2023, the 41st Extraordinary Assembly of IGAD Heads of State and Government convened in Djibouti to address the critical situation in Sudan. The meeting, chaired by H.E. Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of Djibouti, was attended by prominent leaders from Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, and Uganda and representatives of international bodies, including the African Union and the United Nations.

Key Resolutions and Discussions:
The assembly focused on the ongoing crisis in Sudan, highlighting the urgent need for a peaceful resolution and humanitarian aid. Key resolutions and discussions included:

1. Appreciation for IGAD’s Role: The assembly recognized IGAD’s pivotal role in mediating the Jeddah Talks and their continuous efforts in Sudan.
2. Call for Peaceful Resolution: There was a strong emphasis on resolving the conflict in Sudan through political dialogue, with an unconditional ceasefire as a critical step.
3. Humanitarian Concerns: The alarming impact of the conflict on civilians, especially women and children, was highlighted with a call for immediate humanitarian aid and protection.
4. Condemnation of External Interferences: The assembly condemned interventions by external actors in Sudan’s conflict and called for international pressure to prevent further escalation.
5. Support for Democratic Processes: There was a unanimous decision to support Sudan’s transition to civil democratic rule through an all-inclusive Sudanese-led dialogue.

SIHRO’s Position and Call for Action:
As a dedicated human rights organization focusing on Sudan, SIHRO deeply echoes the concerns raised in the IGAD assembly. We urge:

1. African Union’s Solidarity: The African Union must be more proactive in facilitating peaceful resolutions and supporting Sudan’s journey towards democracy.
2. International Community’s Involvement: We call upon the international community, including nations and global organizations, to provide immediate humanitarian aid and to stand in solidarity with the Sudanese people in their quest for peace and democratic governance.
3. Unified Efforts for Peace: We advocate for a cohesive and coordinated approach under IGAD and the AU’s leadership, harmonizing various national and international efforts towards peace in Sudan.
4. Monitoring and Accountability: Ongoing efforts and commitments must be closely monitored, ensuring that resolutions are made and actively implemented.

SIHRO’s Position and Call for Action:
As a dedicated human rights organization focusing on Sudan, SIHRO deeply echoes the concerns raised in the IGAD assembly. We urge:

1. African Union’s Solidarity: The African Union must be more proactive in facilitating peaceful resolutions and supporting Sudan’s journey towards democracy.
2. International Community’s Involvement: We call upon the international community, including nations and global organizations, to provide immediate humanitarian aid and to stand in solidarity with the Sudanese people in their quest for peace and democratic governance.
3. Unified Efforts for Peace: We advocate for a cohesive and coordinated approach under IGAD and the AU’s leadership, harmonizing various national and international efforts towards peace in Sudan.
4. Monitoring and Accountability: Ongoing efforts and commitments must be closely monitored, ensuring that resolutions are made and actively implemented.