MSF’s Secretary General Christopher Lockyear briefed the UN Security Council about the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, depicting the conflict as a “war on people” due to violence against civilians. He highlighted the need for a renewed commitment to aid and protection, stressing that millions of lives are at stake as the international response remains inadequate.
On [date], Christopher Lockyear, the Secretary General of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), delivered a crucial briefing to the United Nations Security Council regarding the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan, emphasizing the need for an immediate cessation of violence against civilians and a renewed commitment to provide essential aid.
Lockyear characterized the ongoing conflict as a “war on people,” pointing to the indiscriminate bombings carried out by the Sudanese Armed Forces in civilian areas. He condemned the actions of the Rapid Support Forces and affiliated militias, which include systematic acts of sexual violence, abductions, mass killings, and obstruction of humanitarian aid and medical facilities.
MSF operates in eleven states throughout Sudan, delivering medical care based on humanitarian principles. Their teams have reported alarming rates of malnutrition and rising infectious diseases, underscoring the urgent need for food and medical supplies, especially with the approaching rainy season that could exacerbate conditions.
Lockyear stressed that the war’s continuation with blatant disregard for civilian lives is unacceptable. He noted that the international response has been insufficient over the nearly two years of conflict, hindered by the warring factions, lack of accountability, and inadequate resources and leadership.
He poignantly stated, “While statements are made in this chamber, civilians remain unseen, unprotected, bombed, besieged, raped, displaced, deprived of food, of medical care, of dignity.” Lockyear called for a fundamental shift away from failed policies, asserting that millions depend on immediate action to protect civilians and meet humanitarian needs.
To address the intricate realities faced in Sudan, Lockyear urged for a comprehensive strategy that moves beyond past failures. He reiterated the pressing crisis, emphasizing that “millions of lives depend on it.”
In summary, MSF’s briefing to the United Nations underscores the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Sudan, marked by violence against civilians and a dire need for urgent action. The lack of adequate international response, combined with the relentless brutality of armed forces, continues to jeopardize countless lives. A fundamental change in approach is essential to protect civilians and deliver necessary aid to those affected by this ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.ca
