UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk sounded the alarm on Friday over escalating violence across Sudan’s North Darfur and Kordofan regions, warning of catastrophic consequences for civilians. His statement came in light of the intensifying hostilities between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Türk expressed grave concern over the recent reports of civilian casualties, sexual violence, abductions, and widespread looting in areas that were affected by the conflict. He stated: “The recent fighting and grave risk of further aggravation in an already brutal and deadly conflict raise severe protection concerns, amid a pervasive culture of impunity for human rights violations.”
The RSF launched a renewed ground offensive in June to seize control of El Fasher following the reported recruitment of child soldiers. In April, the RSF also attacked a camp of internally displaced persons, sparking widespread human rights concerns. As per UN reports, civilians in South Kordofan and North Kordofan still remain under threat.
Türk emphasized the urgent need for all parties to allow civilians safe passage from conflict zones, including El Fasher, Al Debibat and El Obeid, stating: “Civilians must be protected at all costs. Violations and crimes must be thoroughly investigated and those responsible held to account.”
The situation has deteriorated significantly in recent months as the fighting has led to the widespread suspension of humanitarian aid operations. Over 10.7 million people have been displaced within the country, making Sudan home to the largest population of internally displaced persons globally. Additionally, throughout the conflict, both the RSF and SAF have faced serious allegations of violating international humanitarian law. In May, UN experts had condemned the surge in gender-based violence in Sudan, particularly attacks on women and girls allegedly committed by RSF forces. Moreover, they had also urged immediate international intervention to address the ongoing abuses and to protect the displaced populations in other camps such as Zamzam and Abu Shuk.
