Sudan in the grip of violence: an international fact-finding mission adopted
For almost six months, Sudan has been living in the horror of a deadly conflict. Faced with this dramatic situation, the Human Rights Council recently passed a resolution aimed at setting up an international fact-finding mission responsible for examining the violations committed by the parties to the conflict. But the adoption of this resolution was not without difficulties.
During the vote, only 19 votes were in favor of the mission, while 16 countries voted against and 12 abstained. This result highlights the importance and urgency of conducting a thorough investigation into attacks against civilians. The United Kingdom’s representative to the Human Rights Council insisted on the seriousness of the abuses committed: indiscriminate bombings, rapes, kidnappings, murders… Civilian populations are the first victims of this indiscriminate violence.
This fact-finding mission, made up of three experts, will have to be set up quickly to start its work on the ground. However, it is important to emphasize that Sudan is not required to accept the presence of this mission on its territory. Failure to cooperate on the part of the Sudanese government could therefore hamper efforts to collect evidence and complicate the quest for justice.
It is also relevant to note that among the 13 African countries members of the Human Rights Council, none voted in favor of this fact-finding mission to Sudan. This position can be explained by political considerations or reluctance to interfere in the internal affairs of a neighboring country.
In any case, it is essential that the international community come together to end the violence in Sudan and guarantee the protection of human rights. The establishment of this fact-finding mission is an important first step, but much remains to be done to ensure justice and the security of civilian populations. It is time to make their voices heard and end this devastating cycle of violence.