Darfur follow ups – Kampala
On the third anniversary of the outbreak of war in Sudan, press and human rights organizations called for an immediate halt to escalating violations against civilians, as well as adherence to a humanitarian truce that facilitates the delivery of aid and the opening of safe corridors for those affected.
A coalition of civil society organizations and media institutions issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern regarding the escalation of human rights violations across multiple regions whether under the control of the two warring parties or their respective allies. They asserted that the unfolding situation represents a dangerous regression from commitments regarding the protection of civilians and the assurance of access to relief.
The statement noted that the persistence of systematic violence against civilians and their property reflects a pattern of conduct that cannot be overlooked. It demanded that violations be thoroughly documented and that those responsible be held accountable without politicization thereby ensuring that justice is served for the victims.
The statement clarified that this initiative was launched at the behest of the Darfur Victims Advocacy Organization, as part of a coordinated effort among various organizations and media outlets to highlight the repercussions of the war. The initiative aims to exert pressure for the realization of a humanitarian truce and to ensure the delivery of aid, while simultaneously upholding the rights of prisoners in accordance with international humanitarian law.
The signatories demanded the establishment of safe and sustainable humanitarian corridors, the guarantee of freedom of movement for civilians, and the protection of essential service facilities including hospitals and schools.
They emphasized that the protection of civilians is a legal and moral imperative that cannot be postponed, and that achieving sustainable peace remains contingent upon halting violations and ensuring accountability. The statement bears the signatures of a number of media and human rights organizations and initiatives, which emphasized the continuation of advocacy efforts and the defense of human rights and freedoms in Sudan.
