UN independent expert in Sudan to assess situation of IDPs

November 13, 2012 (KHARTOUM) Sudan has invited the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to visit the country and examine the overall situation of displaced and affected communities in the country.

Chaloka Bayeni, will be in the North African country from 14-22 November, to gather first-hand information from displaced persons and affected communities.

“I will consider the situation of internally displaced persons, including in Darfur, with a view to assessing the current humanitarian, protection and durable solutions needs, and providing relevant recommendations,” said Beyani, in a statement extended to Sudan Tribune.

As an independent expert designated by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) to examine and report on the human rights situation of IDPs around the world, Beyani will also discuss with relevant stakeholders the ratification of the African Union Convention on IDPs in Africa and the development of national policies and legislation to address internal displacement in the country.

The Special Rapporteur, will during his nine-day visit to Sudan, meet with Government representatives, members of civil society, UN officials and other parties.

He will, according to the statement, also visit various sites of displacement and return, and meet with displaced persons, local authorities and affected communities prior to the presentation of his report, expected before the HRC in June 2013.

Beyani, a Zambian national was appointed the UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons by the HRC in
September 2010. He is currently a professor of international law at the London School of Economics.

(ST).