UN High Commissioner for Human Rights condemns widespread abuses in Wad Madani

December 20, 2023 (KHARTOUM) – UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has expressed deep alarm at the ongoing conflict in Sudan, particularly in Wad Madani, where recurring reports of widespread human rights abuses and violations have emerged.

“I am deeply concerned by the escalating violence and the devastating impact it has on civilians in Sudan,” said High Commissioner Türk. “The reports of attacks on civilians, including medical personnel, mutilations, looting, and detentions, are unacceptable and must be immediately investigated.”

The fighting between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Wad Madani, Sudan’s third-largest city, has reportedly resulted in the deaths of dozens of civilians, including medical personnel. Some of the attacks have been alleged to be ethnically motivated.

“The unfolding humanitarian situation in the wider Al-Jazirah State is also dire,” stated High Commissioner Türk. “At least 250,000 people have been displaced from their homes, and access to essential services is severely restricted.”

High Commissioner Türk called on both parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian and human rights law. He emphasized the need to protect civilians and civilian objects, refrain from targeting specifically protected persons like medical personnel, and ensure humanitarian access to all those in need.

“Humanitarian workers and human rights defenders play a crucial role in protecting civilians and documenting human rights violations,” said High Commissioner Türk. “They must be protected from harm and allowed to carry out their work without fear of reprisals.”

The High Commissioner urged Sudan’s authorities to take immediate steps to address the dire humanitarian situation in Al-Jezirah State, including providing adequate protection and assistance to displaced persons. He also called for an impartial and independent investigation into the reported human rights abuses.

“The international community must not stand by as civilians suffer in this conflict,” said High Commissioner Türk. “We must work together to promote peace and stability in Sudan and ensure that human rights are upheld for all.”

(ST)