The United Nations human rights chief, Volker Turk, expressed grave concern over the Sudan crisis, stating that the apparent denial of safe access for humanitarian agencies within the war-torn country could potentially constitute a war crime.
Addressing the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Friday, Turk described Sudan as a “living nightmare,” with almost half of the population—25 million people—in urgent need of food and medical aid.
Turk highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan, emphasizing that approximately 80 percent of hospitals have been rendered inoperable. The crisis, marked by an “insidious disregard for human life,” has led to violations of international humanitarian law by warring parties, which, according to Turk, “may amount to war crimes or other atrocity crimes.”
The conflict, primarily between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudan’s army since April of the previous year, has resulted in the deaths of thousands, the displacement of millions both within and outside the country, and the looming threat of famine.
Turk revealed alarming figures, stating that in 11 months, at least 14,600 people have been killed, and 26,000 others have been injured. He acknowledged that the actual figures are likely much higher, emphasizing the indiscriminate use of heavy artillery, even in densely populated urban areas.
The UN Human Rights Chief called attention to the potential war crimes committed by both sides and urged them to open humanitarian corridors without delay to prevent further loss of lives. He underscored the challenges faced by humanitarian agencies, including looting of aid supplies, attacks on humanitarian workers, and bureaucratic obstacles hindering assistance efforts.
The international community is called upon to address the unfolding humanitarian nightmare in Sudan, with Turk’s statements serving as a stark reminder of the urgent need for intervention to protect the lives of those affected by the crisis.
