Condemnation Statement Regarding the Suspension of International News Outlets in Sudan

The Sudan International Human Rights Organization (SIHRO) unequivocally condemns the recent directive issued by Sudan’s Ministry of Culture and Information, which mandates the cessation of operations for the international news outlets Al Arabiya, Al Hadath, and Sky News Arabia within Sudanese territory. This directive, ostensibly issued on the grounds of alleged failures to maintain transparency and professionalism, represents a significant encroachment on the fundamental human rights of freedom of expression and the right to information—cornerstones of a democratic society and essential components of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, notably articles 19 and 29, as well as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), specifically article 19.

Violation of Human Rights:

1. Freedom of Expression: The cessation obstructs journalists’ and media staff’s right to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers. This move directly contradicts the principle that freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic societies, a vehicle for the exchange of ideas, and essential for exercising other human rights.
2. Right to Information: By halting these operations, the Sudanese government restricts the public’s access to diverse and independent sources of information, which is crucial for an informed citizenry. Access to information allows individuals to exercise their rights and responsibilities, engage in public debate, and hold authorities accountable.
3. Right to Non-Discrimination: The arbitrary targeting of specific international news outlets risks violating the principle of non-discrimination, as it selectively silences particular sources of information and perspectives based on content, thereby undermining the diversity of voices necessary for a pluralistic society.

SIHRO stands in solidarity with the affected channels and their dedicated Sudanese staff, who have demonstrated unwavering commitment and professionalism to provide accurate reporting and combat disinformation amid challenging circumstances. Their work is vital for ensuring the Sudanese public remains informed, contributing to the global fight against misinformation.

We urge the Sudanese government to reconsider this abrupt decision. Matters of alleged lack of transparency and professionalism can be addressed through constructive dialogue, policy reforms, and the implementation of robust monitoring tools rather than through blanket suspensions that hinder the flow of information. We contend that halting these outlets’ operations will not cease their coverage but may inadvertently lead to an increase in reliance on less reliable sources, as the absence of operations and informants on the ground restricts direct access to information and the ability to verify facts.

SIHRO reiterates its steadfast commitment to advocating for human rights, the rule of law, and the maintenance of a free, independent media landscape in Sudan and globally. We call upon the Sudanese government to uphold its international human rights obligations, ensure that all media can operate freely, and protect the public’s right to access a diversity of information sources.

In solidarity,

Sudan International Human Rights Organization (SIHRO)