Amidst the Ashes of Conflict: A Human Rights Analysis of the Ongoing Crisis in Sudan International Human Rights Organization (SIHRO)

March 2024

Introduction

This comprehensive human rights report by the Sudan International Human Rights Organization (SIHRO) covers the period from April 15 to December 15, 2023, in response to the alarming human rights situation in Sudan. Drawing on the latest updates from the UN Human Rights Council, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and other leading agencies, SIHRO aims to illuminate the grave human rights violations and abuses committed by all parties in the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

Overview of the Conflict

Since April 15, 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a devastating conflict characterized by intense hostilities between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This period has witnessed widespread violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, contributing to a dire humanitarian crisis. Despite international efforts, including the Jeddah Declaration and the IGAD-led mediation, hostilities have continued unabated, with a significant impact on the civilian population.

Violations and Abuses

Indiscriminate Attacks and Impact on Civilians

Both SAF and RSF have carried out indiscriminate attacks in densely populated areas, resulting in substantial civilian casualties. The use of explosive weapons with wide-area effects, including fighter jets and artillery, has been particularly devastating. Such actions raise serious concerns regarding the adherence to the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution under international humanitarian law.

Attacks on Protected Objects

The conflict has seen attacks on health facilities and religious sites, significantly undermining the protection afforded to these locations under international law. The World Health Organization has recorded numerous attacks on healthcare, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Use of Human Shields

There are credible reports of the RSF using civilians as human shields, a practice that constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law and may amount to war crimes.

Displacement and Humanitarian Access

Over 6.7 million people have been displaced, making Sudan the country with the largest displaced population globally. Humanitarian access has been severely impeded by insecurity and bureaucratic obstacles, with significant looting of humanitarian assets.

Arbitrary Detention and Enforced Disappearances

Hundreds of individuals, including women and children, have been arbitrarily detained by both the SAF and the RSF. Detainees have been held in unofficial detention facilities, often without charge or trial, and subjected to torture and ill-treatment.

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

Widespread allegations of sexual and gender-based violence, including rape and gang rape, have been reported. These incidents involve combatants from both parties and their allied groups, targeting civilians and contributing to the climate of fear and trauma.

Recruitment of Children

There have been reports of both parties recruiting children for combat, a grave violation of international law, and a war crime.

Recommendations

SIHRO urgently calls upon all parties to the conflict to:

• Cease hostilities immediately and engage in meaningful dialogue for a peaceful resolution.
• Comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.
• Ensure rapid and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid to all affected areas.
• End the recruitment and use of children in hostilities.
• Facilitate access to justice for victims of human rights violations and abuses.

Furthermore, SIHRO urges the international community to:

• Increase humanitarian assistance and support efforts for the cessation of hostilities.
• Support initiatives aimed at restoring a civilian-led government in Sudan.
• Encourage Sudanese authorities to cooperate with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission and the OHCHR.

Conclusion

The human rights situation in Sudan requires immediate and concerted action from both national and international actors. As the conflict continues to inflict untold suffering on the civilian population, the imperative for a peaceful resolution, accountability, and the restoration of human rights and dignity has never been more urgent.