Christopher Lockyear of MSF has urged the UN Security Council to act immediately on the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, emphasizing two years of violence, displacement, and suffering. With civilian protection undermined and aid severely restricted, Lockyear called for a new commitment to humanitarian access and support for those affected. He highlighted the urgent need for political will and accountability to address the immense challenges facing Sudanese citizens.
During a briefing to the United Nations Security Council, Christopher Lockyear, Secretary General of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), called for immediate action regarding the ongoing war in Sudan. He emphasized that two years of violence have resulted in immense suffering, displacing millions and causing tens of thousands of deaths while famine worsens. Lockyear described the war as a direct assault on civilians, with conflicting forces failing to protect them and exacerbating their plight.
The Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces have engaged in indiscriminate bombing of populated areas and have perpetrated numerous atrocities, including systematic sexual violence and mass killings. Lockyear recounted recent experiences in Khartoum, where bombings resulted in overwhelming casualties at a medical facility. He noted that essential healthcare provision is collapsing amidst ongoing violence, particularly in regions such as Nyala and Zamzam, where rapid assaults have left communities vulnerable.
MSF operates in numerous medical facilities throughout Sudan, reporting alarming levels of malnutrition and outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Lockyear asserted that violence against civilians is not merely collateral damage, but a core characteristic of the ongoing war. Moreover, humanitarian responses are obstructed by bureaucratic challenges and factional control, complicating aid delivery.
There have been slight improvements in aid access, yet these are overshadowed by the overwhelming humanitarian needs. Lockyear criticized the limited aid that has reached Darfur since the crossing became operational, expressing concern that inadequate infrastructure disrupts the delivery process, as exemplified by the collapse of the Mornei bridge.
He urged the Council to take meaningful action to halt the conflict and enhance the flow of humanitarian aid. The current response, he stated, reflects a failure of the humanitarian system constrained by bureaucratic inertia and insecurity. Lack of tangible action illustrates a neglect of civilian needs and exacerbates suffering amidst the crisis.
Lockyear advocated for a new agreement focused on civilian protection, enhancing operational space for aid organizations and prioritizing humanitarian necessities over political constraints. For genuine progress, both political will and accountability mechanisms are essential. Additionally, he called for member states to ensure substantial funding and for the UN to strengthen its presence in Sudan to address the dire situation as the rainy season approaches.
In conclusion, the humanitarian crisis in Sudan persists, requiring urgent action to protect civilians and facilitate aid delivery. The MSF briefing underscores the stark realities of violence, suffering, and neglect faced by millions. A coalition committed to civilian protection, unrestricted humanitarian access, and enhanced funding is crucial to mitigate the ongoing disaster and safeguard the lives of those affected by the conflict.
Original Source: www.msf.org
