Advancing Sudanese Peace: International Ministerial Declaration

A Unified Call for Humanitarian Action and Conflict Resolution

Subject: Ministerial Meeting for Advancing the Sudan Peace Initiatives

Location: Paris, France

Context: The International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and the Neighbouring Countries, convened in Paris on April 15, 2024, witnessed the participation of esteemed Ministers of Foreign Affairs and representatives from various States and international and regional organizations. The objective of the gathering was to advance the peace initiatives for Sudan, recognizing the urgent need to address the escalating conflict while upholding the rights and dignity of the Sudanese people and respecting Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.

Key Observations:

1. Commitment to Peace: The participants underscored an unwavering commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution to the Sudanese conflict, acknowledging the imperative of respecting the aspirations of the Sudanese people.
2. Recognition of Efforts: The commendable efforts of co-facilitators of the Jeddah talks, the African Union, IGAD, and neighboring countries were acknowledged and appreciated.
3. Concerns over Violations: Deep concern was expressed over the egregious violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law within Sudan, emphasizing the urgent need for compliance by all parties involved.
4. Humanitarian Access: Emphasis was placed on the imperative of unhindered humanitarian access to affected civilian populations, urging all parties to facilitate such access in accordance with international obligations.
5. Call for Ceasefire: Urgent calls were made to immediately cease hostilities by all warring factions, reiterating the commitments made in previous rounds of negotiations.
6. Disruption of External Support: All foreign actors were urged to cease providing armed support or equipment to the warring parties, emphasizing the need to prevent actions that could exacerbate tensions or prolong the conflict.
7. Support for Peace Initiatives: Participants pledged full support for a consolidated Sudan peace initiative, building upon existing platforms and mechanisms and committed to enhancing coordination among regional and international actors.
8. Mediation and Diplomacy: The importance of coordinated international mediation efforts was underscored, emphasizing the role of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sudan in fostering unified diplomatic engagement and an inclusive consultative forum.
9. Humanitarian Assistance: Commitments were made to assist the civilian population in Sudan, address funding gaps for humanitarian aid, and ensure the delivery of essential services to those in need, both within Sudan and among displaced populations in neighboring states.
10. Support for Democratic Transition: Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people, emphasizing the importance of a Sudanese-led and owned process for restoring civilian rule.

Conclusion: The Ministerial Meeting in Paris marks a significant step forward in the collective efforts to advance peace and stability in Sudan. The Declaration of Principles reflects a firm commitment to upholding human rights, promoting peace, and addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region. All stakeholders must honor their obligations and work collaboratively towards a sustainable and inclusive peace process to benefit the Sudanese people and the broader region. SIHRO remains dedicated to monitoring developments and advocating for the protection of human rights in Sudan.