Christopher Lockyear, MSF Secretary General, briefed the UN Security Council on the dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan, citing two years of violence and suffering. He highlighted the direct assault on civilians and the obstruction of humanitarian aid by conflict parties. Lockyear urged for immediate international action, a new cooperative agreement to ensure civilian protection, and increased funding to address the critical humanitarian needs.
Christopher Lockyear, the Secretary General of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), addressed the United Nations Security Council, urging immediate action regarding the ongoing war in Sudan. He detailed the two years marked by unceasing violence, resulting in mass displacements, thousands of deaths, and escalating humanitarian crises. Lockyear emphasized the dire situation that has persisted amid widespread indifference and inaction on a global scale.
The conflict in Sudan constitutes a direct assault on civilians, exacerbated by the actions of various factions including the Rapid Support Forces and Sudanese Armed Forces. Both parties have been accused of indiscriminately bombing civilian areas and engaging in extensive human rights abuses, including sexual violence and the systematic occupation of medical facilities. Humanitarian aid has also been deliberately obstructed, further intensifying the plight of the Sudanese people.
Lockyear recounted his recent visit to Khartoum State, where he witnessed the catastrophic conditions at the Al-Nao hospital, overwhelmed with injured civilians after recent attacks. He highlighted alarming incidents across the region, noting that the violence has led to a humanitarian disaster, particularly in areas struggling with malnutrition and disease outbreaks.
Despite MSF’s ongoing efforts to provide medical assistance across Sudan, the challenges remain colossal. The organization operates in 22 hospitals and 42 primary health care facilities, yet the crushing humanitarian needs often exceed their capacity. There is an alarming rise in vaccine-preventable diseases, compounded by severe restrictions on humanitarian access imposed by armed groups and bureaucratic hurdles.
Lockyear pointed out that the delivery of humanitarian assistance is thwarted by complicated permit requirements, delays, and unjustified tolls imposed by the Rapid Support Forces. Aid organizations face impossible choices, risking operational shutdowns as they navigate a landscape fraught with obstacles.
Moreover, Lockyear critiqued the ineffective response of the humanitarian system, advocating for a renewed commitment to address the urgent needs of the civilian population. He emphasized that the operational limitations stemming from bureaucratic inefficiencies must be addressed, and more robust mechanisms must be established to ensure humanitarian access.
He called for an end to the conflict and adherence to international humanitarian law, advocating for a new collaborative agreement focused on civilian protection and unhindered humanitarian access. This proposed compact would require the political will to facilitate aid operations while ensuring accountability for all parties involved in the conflict.
In conclusion, the war in Sudan presents an escalating humanitarian crisis that demands immediate and decisive action. Lockyear’s address served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for enhanced international engagement, sufficient funding, and proactive measures to alleviate the suffering of millions caught in the conflict’s grip.
The war in Sudan has led to a catastrophic humanitarian situation characterized by widespread violence and systemic abuse against civilians. The call for a renewed commitment by the UN Security Council emphasizes the necessity for immediate action to restore humanitarian access and uphold the dignity of the Sudanese people. A comprehensive new compact focused on civilian protection is crucial, alongside more significant international engagement and support to address the dire needs of those affected by the conflict.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
