iscover
The Australian government has condemned reports of systematic violence against civilians and reported violations of international humanitarian law in Sudan.
International media have reported alleged systematic and ongoing violence against civilians during and after the fall of El Fasher to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during an escalation of conflict across North Darfur and the Kordofan region in Sudan.
The Australian government has rallied against deliberate targeting of civilians, ethnically motivated mass killings, conflict-related sexual violence and starvation as a method of warfare.
“We condemn all atrocities in the strongest possible terms and demand that the violence stops immediately,” according to a statement from Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong.
“We acknowledge the important work to document the nature of violations committed by the RSF in El Fasher.
“Impunity must end and accountability must be upheld. Protection and justice for the Sudanese people is not only a legal obligation but also an urgent moral imperative.
“It is intolerable that widespread starvation and famine persist due to access restrictions. WFP, UNICEF, and other humanitarian agencies must get the necessary permissions to conduct their life-saving work and reach populations in need.
“All parties must respect international humanitarian law, which includes an obligation to guarantee rapid and unimpeded passage of food, medicine, and other essential supplies. Civilians must also be granted safe passage.”
The Australian government has a called on all conflicting parties in Sudan to agree to a ceasefire and a three-month humanitarian truce, in pursuit of a broad and inclusive Sudanese-owned political process
Earlier this month, the Australian government announced an additional $10 million in humanitarian assistance to support civilians in Sudan.
Australia’s assistance was intended to be directed through United Nations and NGO partners to provide food, clean water and shelter, and support to victim survivors of gender-based violence.
Australia has now provided over $60 million to the crisis in Sudan since 2023, with a particular focus on women and girls.
“Australia is horrified by reports of mass killings, sexual violence and deliberate attacks on civilians in El Fasher, Sudan,” Minister Wong said.
“We condemn the atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces and call for an immediate end to the violence and unhindered humanitarian access, including Australia’s additional support announced today.
“We will continue to work with partners to help the people of Sudan, particularly women and girls, to access food, nutrition, clean water and shelter.
“All parties must uphold their obligations to protect civilians and respect international law.”
