By Joy Ezeilo, SAN
On June 18 and 19, 2024, the International Fact-Finding Mission (FFM, Sudan) presented its oral update to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, on the situation in Sudan and the work we are doing in pursuance of the Council Resolution 54/2 (2023).
The robust and extensive interactive session that followed reaffirmed the need for accountability for the people of Sudan. Severe violations of human rights and international humanitarian law have continued since the conflict broke out in April 2023, mainly between RSF and SAF.
Millions have been displaced and thousands killed, and several million, including children, are under threats of famine. It is evident that rape is being used as an instrument of war, and victims, especially women, are reluctant to report it due to stigma, insecurity, lack of privacy, and confidential services.
We urge immediate ceasefire to hostilities by all sides and compliance with the UN Security Council’s Resolution 2736 (2024). It is pertinent to observe that the FFM Sudan is crucial in ensuring accountability and meeting the justice needs of millions of Sudanese, including in the growing cases of ethnic cleansing, sexual violence, child recruitment and looting and destruction of critical infrastructure.
We need the cooperation of all concerned, especially the Government of Sudan and, importantly, to have access to neighbouring countries hosting refugees fleeing the conflict from Sudan. Solidarity for Sudanese, as we heard many countries pledge, must translate to full accountability not just under the municipal legal system but also on regional and international legal frameworks and mechanisms.
FFM Sudan will facilitate a detailed accountability framework. We’re collaborating appropriately and avoiding duplication through strategic coordination.
This mandate of the Council on Sudan has no equivalent, and the independent experts, given our respective cumulative experiences and expertise, are uniquely positioned to fact-find and report independently, impartially, and professionally. More information on the work of the Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan can be found here.
