PRESS RELEASE : The conflict in Sudan is having a catastrophic impact on civilians – UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2023]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 16 November 2023.
Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on Sudan.
Thank you President, and thank you also to ASG Pobee for her briefing. And I welcome the participation of the representative of Sudan in this meeting.
President, the conflict in Sudan is having a catastrophic impact on civilians. More than six million people are now displaced inside and outside of the country.
We pay tribute to the tireless efforts of Sudanese people, UN staff and aid workers who are working to provide support for the millions plunged into starvation and insecurity by the fighting between the Rapid Support Forces [RSF] and Sudanese Armed Forces [SAF].
In Darfur, the recent RSF offensive has been appallingly violent, with credible reports of human rights abuses and atrocities, including ethnically targeted killings, unjust detentions and widespread sexual violence.
Continued airstrikes in urban areas by the SAF have led to a heavy loss of life and thousands trapped without access to basic services. And we note with concern the announcement today that signatories to the Juba Peace Agreement have ended their neutrality in this conflict. This can only risk leading to further bloodshed.
President, this conflict requires urgent diplomatic action. We are encouraged by the resumption of Jeddah talks and the subsequent establishment of a Humanitarian Forum. We urge both warring parties to act on their commitment to improve humanitarian access through concrete actions.
The meeting in Addis Ababa of Sudanese civilian stakeholders is an important step towards establishment of a representative pro-democracy civilian front. We support this effort and underline the need to make the process even more inclusive.
We urge the warring parties to recognise that the transfer of power to a civilian administration is the only way forward and to work constructively towards meaningful peace talks.
The conflict cannot be ended through military means. Further coordinated action under African leadership, along with other international partners, remains vital.
Irrespective of developments over the coming months, there is a clear need for a continued UN role in Sudan, working in concert with the AU and IGAD. We look forward to the Secretary-General’s recommendations following the strategic review of UNITAMS.
I thank you.
