UN calls for compliance mechanism to protect civilians

November 12, 2024 (UNITED NATIONS) – In a stern address to the UN Security Council on Tuesday, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo strongly condemned the escalating violence in Sudan and called for a compliance mechanism to hold warring parties accountable.

DiCarlo highlighted the alarming surge of attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in eastern Al-Al-Jazirah state, which have resulted in extensive civilian casualties and mass displacement. She denounced both the RSF’s attacks and the Sudanese Armed Forces’ indiscriminate airstrikes in populated areas.

“We strongly condemn the Rapid Support Forces’ continued attacks against civilians,” DiCarlo stated. “We also strongly condemn the Sudanese Armed Forces’ indiscriminate airstrikes in populated areas.”

DiCarlo emphasized the urgent need for a compliance mechanism agreed upon by the warring parties, with international support, to enforce their commitments to protect civilians. She also called for immediate progress on implementing the Jeddah Declaration, a framework for peace and security in Sudan, and urged local ceasefires to provide relief for civilians and foster dialogue.

To further encourage progress towards peace, Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, is considering the next phase of his engagement with the warring parties. This includes another round of “proximity talks” focused on commitments related to the protection of civilians.

Lamamra will travel to Sudan and other locations in the region in the coming weeks to meet with key stakeholders. He will also closely engage with Sudanese civilian groups to ensure their perspectives are reflected in his endeavours.

Concluding her address, DiCarlo reiterated the international community’s responsibility to protect Sudanese civilians and urged the warring parties to engage in good-faith negotiations toward a lasting political solution.