HRC58 - NB8 statement - EID on report of Commission of Human Rights on the Sudan

Human Rights Council - 58th session

Enhanced Interactive Dialouge on report of Commission of Human Rights on the Sudan

Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states

27 February 2025

President,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.

The people of Sudan are suffering from a conflict that is causing an enormous humanitarian crisis and has devastating consequences of human rights. Thousands have been killed, millions are displaced, more than half the population is facing acute food insecurity and famine has been confirmed in several locations. Rapid and unhindered humanitarian access must be ensured.

We condemn all forms of violence against civilians by all parties to the conflict. Serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law, including deliberate attacks on civilians and civilian objects, summary executions, sexual- and gender-based violence, and arbitrary arrests and detention, must end and those responsible brought to justice. Only through accountability can we break the recurring cycles of violence and impunity.

We strongly urge all parties to the conflict to comply with their obligations under international law, including the protection of civilians.

High Commissioner, reports of coordinated use of conflict-related sexual violence in Sudan are gravely concerning. What assistance from states is most needed to support violence prevention, effective investigations and redress for survivors, including children?

I thank you.