UN Passes Motion to Monitor Human Rights Abuses in Sudan

May 11, 2023

A man walks while smoke rises above buildings after aerial bombardment, during clashes between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the army in Khartoum North, Sudan, May 1, 2023 [Image Source: REUTERS/Mohamed Nureldin Abdallah]

Cited article by Emma Farge, Reuters

HRRC condemns the violence and human rights abuses taking place in Sudan. Both sides in the conflict must cease their attacks and be held accountable for their actions which have led to the deaths of hundreds of civilians.

Article Summary

A Western nation-led motion to increase monitoring of the human rights abuses taking place in Sudan barely passed in the UN Human Rights Council this week. Notably, no African country voted in favor of the motion, and numerous diplomats state there is concern the motion could endanger ongoing Saudi Arabia-led peace talks. Sudan's ambassador referred to the ongoing conflict as an "internal affair".

The conflict between Sudan's army and the paramilitary forces broke out in April 2023, resulting in hundreds killed, thousands wounded, disruption to aid supplies, and increased refugee movement to neighboring regions. UN human rights chief Volker Turk stated that both sides are violating international humanitarian laws.