“We see massive violations of international human rights law, direct attacks against civilians, and non-compliance with international humanitarian law, with attacks largely targeting civilians,” stated Chaloka Beyani, the new Special Advisor to the Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide.
Mr. Beyani informed UN News in an interview that he communicated with Denise Brown, the resident coordinator in Sudan, and plans to issue an advisory to Secretary-General António Guterres, the Security Council, and the entire United Nations system.
“Once our office sounds the alarm, the alarm goes beyond ordinary violations of human rights or international humanitarian law,” he explained. “This indicates that the threshold is about to be crossed and urgent action is needed.”
Graphic and video evidence began circulating online at the end of last month, suggesting war crimes by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, which took control of Darfur’s capital, El Fasher, from government troops after a prolonged siege.
“We don’t hear the screams, but the horror continues,” said UN relief chief Tom Fletcher, presenting to the Security Council on October 31.
Mr. Beyani’s office noted indicators of atrocity crimes risk in Sudan but emphasized that only an international tribunal or legal body can determine genocide’s existence.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) expressed concern about reports of massacres, rapes, and other crimes in El Fasher, highlighting ongoing investigations into alleged war crimes since April 2023.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, the office is taking immediate action to preserve and collect evidence for future prosecutions,” stated the prosecutor’s office.
The RSF reportedly agreed to a “humanitarian ceasefire” following criticism of its fighters’ actions around El Fasher. Militia leaders agreed to a truce proposed by the United States, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Meanwhile, the UN warns of a worsening humanitarian situation in North Darfur, where displaced families from El Fasher face dire conditions. “In and around Tawila, displaced people lack adequate food, clean water, shelter, or medical care,” said UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq.
Humanitarian agencies, with local partners, are establishing new camps for over 650,000 people in Tawila. In Tawila Al Omda, more than 3,000 new arrivals urgently need plastic sheeting, mats, and blankets as temperatures drop.
Many, including the injured, disabled, and unaccompanied children, sleep outside. Similar conditions impact over 6,500 people in Daba Al Naira and Um Jangour camps.
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