In a recent statement, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has voiced significant concern over the escalating human rights crisis in the region of El Fasher, North Darfur. Türk’s urgent call for action highlights the pressing need for the protection and safe passage of civilians amidst the conflict, which has markedly intensified since mid-April 2023.
The press release reports that over 481 civilians have been killed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since the offensive began on April 10. Türk has drawn particular attention to the severe humanitarian violations, including escalating sexual violence, with numerous cases of women, girls, and boys being raped or gang-raped while attempting to flee the violence. Furthermore, the report indicates that vital resources such as water are being cut off, and healthcare workers are increasingly targeted amidst ongoing hostilities.
The obligation to protect civilians is underscored by international humanitarian law. According to Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, protecting individuals not actively participating in hostilities is imperative. Similarly, Article 4(2)(e) of Additional Protocol II categorically prohibits cruel and humiliating treatment, including rape and enforced prostitution.
North Darfur has transformed into a battleground, with the Sudanese Army and RSF, mainly comprised of the Janjaweed militia, locked in fierce conflict since April 2023. The ongoing violence has been linked to a range of war crimes, including attacks on civilians and hospitals and the deliberate exacerbation of famine. Human Rights Watch has reported that both parties have been implicated in these crimes.
The turmoil in Darfur is reminiscent of the catastrophic period between 2003 and 2005 when an estimated 200,000 civilians died due to concerted attacks, starvation, and disease. The US State Department recognized these events as genocide in 2004, and in 2009, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for former Sudanese President Omar Al Bashir on multiple counts of crimes against humanity and genocide.
The situation in North Darfur remains dire and requires immediate international attention and intervention to safeguard human rights and address the humanitarian needs of the affected population. The full article can be accessed here.