HRC57 - NB8 statement - Sudan

Human Rights Council – 57th session
Item 2: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in the Sudan
Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states
10 September 2024

Mr. President,

The Nordic Baltic states thank the Fact-Finding Mission for its report and welcome its conclusions and recommendations. We regret that it has been hampered by the UN liquidity crisis.

The people of Sudan still face a catastrophic humanitarian and human rights crisis. Millions of people have been displaced. Famine has been confirmed in the Zamzam camp in North Darfur. Continued and credible reports of serious violations and abuses committed by both parties are deeply disturbing. They include targeting of civilians, ethnically motivated violence, sexual and gender-based violence, arbitrary arrests and detentions.

We strongly urge the parties to agree to a sustained ceasefire, and to fulfil their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law. Safe and unhindered humanitarian access must be ensured to and within all of Sudan. Civilians must be protected.

The FFM has a unique role to play with respect to future accountability regardless of who the perpetrators might be. It investigates human rights violations and abuses, as well as violations of international humanitarian law, independently and impartially. Only through accountability can we break the cycle of violence that has ridden Sudan for too long.

The FFM has not been granted access to Sudan. We encourage all parties to engage with the Mission, and regional countries to welcome it.

In light of these challenges, what assistance from States is most needed to ensure effective investigations of violations and abuses in Sudan?

I thank you.