UN Human Rights Council 63: Introductory Statement on the draft resolution on Sudan
The UK, representing a core group of five nations, introduced a UN Human Rights Council draft resolution addressing Sudan’s deepening humanitarian and rights crisis, citing widespread violence, displacement, and external support fueling the conflict.
The UK, speaking on behalf of Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom, presented draft resolution L.26 to address the human rights and humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The statement highlighted findings from the UN Fact-Finding Mission, which described shattered communities, millions displaced, and civilians trapped in violence. It noted drone warfare by both the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces, alongside attacks on hospitals, markets, and a kindergarten, leaving no safe spaces for civilians.
The draft resolution condemns the illegal flows of weapons and external support sustaining the conflict, which are exacerbating regional instability and undermining peace efforts. It calls for an immediate end to all forms of external arming, financing, or support to the warring parties. The core group emphasized the need for accountability across all levels of responsibility, including through the International Criminal Court, and urged full cooperation from Sudanese authorities with the Court’s investigations.
The resolution underscores the critical role of the UN Fact-Finding Mission as the only independent body documenting violations across Sudan. It welcomes the Mission’s collaboration with the African Commission’s Joint Fact-Finding Mission and highlights the Banjul Joint Declaration’s recognition of cooperation between UN and African Union mechanisms. Renewing the Fact-Finding Mission’s mandate is framed as essential for justice and future accountability in Sudan.
Consultations on the draft were held extensively with all delegations, including Sudan, and proposals from Sudanese authorities were incorporated. Despite these efforts, the resolution faced resistance from Sudanese authorities, though it remains a measure aimed at supporting the people of Sudan. The statement concluded by urging Council members to stand with Sudan’s victims, survivors, and human rights defenders, emphasizing their courage and resilience in documenting atrocities amid grave personal risk.