Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Madam Vice President,
I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of Australia, Canada and my own country, New Zealand.
We welcome the oral update provided by the Fact Finding Mission for Sudan. Investigating and establishing the facts and causes of all alleged human rights violations and abuses, as well as violations of international humanitarian law are critical steps in ensuring accountability in Sudan.
The fighting in Sudan is now in its second year and continues to have a devastating impact on the Sudanese people. Millions are dead or displaced, and Sudan now faces one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. Rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access must be given to a population in desperate need of assistance.
We are deeply concerned by reports of gross human rights violations and abuses by both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. Unlawful killings, arbitrary detention, and the use of torture cannot continue. The reports of sexual and gender-based and ethnically-motivated violence are of grave concern and the perpetrators must be held to account.
Echoing the recent call of the FFM, we once again urge the parties to immediately halt fighting and negotiate and adhere to a ceasefire. The meaningful inclusion of civilian voices in mediation efforts is essential to lasting peace.
Madam Vice President — how can the international community help ensure there is accountability for human rights violations and abuses in Sudan?
Thank you.