Communiqué from the Coalition for Atrocity Prevention and Justice in Sudan: 24 September

The United Kingdom, representing the Coalition for Atrocity Prevention and Justice in Sudan, convened a high-level event at the 81st UN General Assembly on 24 September to address the protection of civilians and frontline responders in Sudan. The meeting emphasized the expanding use of drones in hostilities, which is increasing harm to civilians, including humanitarian workers and medical personnel. The Coalition reiterated the need for all parties to comply with international humanitarian law, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and ensure unimpeded humanitarian access.

The Coalition expressed grave concern over indiscriminate attacks on civilians, reports of starvation as a method of warfare, sexual and gender-based violence, and the destruction of essential infrastructure such as healthcare facilities and water systems. These actions have contributed to severe food insecurity, famine conditions, and heightened risks for vulnerable groups, particularly women and girls. Restrictions on humanitarian access and attacks on aid workers were highlighted as exacerbating displacement, hunger, and disease across Sudan.

Humanitarian actors and frontline responders were commended for their efforts despite extreme risks, with the Coalition stressing the need to protect their safety and enable their work without obstruction. The statement also condemned harmful external interference that prolongs the conflict and civilian suffering, urging States and other actors to cease arming, financing, or enabling the war in Sudan.

The Coalition reaffirmed its commitment to holding violators accountable, supporting efforts to document abuses, preserve evidence, and advance justice, including before the International Criminal Court. It called for all parties to fully comply with international humanitarian and human rights law, emphasizing that preventing atrocities must be paired with accountability for violations already committed.