AcoGaps Calls on the World to Break the Silence Regarding Militia Crimes Against Civilians in Sudan
In a statement issued on the occasion of International Human Rights Day, the African Center for Governance, Peace, and Transition Studies (AcoCaps) condemned the grave and systematic violations committed by the Rapid Support Forces militia against civilians in Sudan, warning of an unprecedented deterioration in the humanitarian and human rights situation in the country. The statement was read by Dr. Muaz Hussein, the Center’s humanitarian affairs expert, at the closing session of the second training course I on international and regional human rights mechanisms, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation for civilians and the urgent need for international action to stop the militia’s violations.
The statement explained that the conditions Sudan is experiencing, including the direct targeting of civilians, widespread destruction of basic services, and the expansion of displacement, along with the perpetration of crimes such as extrajudicial killings, sexual violence, looting, the burning of villages and neighborhoods, and ethnic cleansing, constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The center highlighted the siege and widespread attacks on El Fasher, which targeted residential areas, markets, health facilities, and camps for displaced persons. It described the situation there as a model of grave and systematic violations not limited to a specific region, but extending to various states across Sudan. The center emphasized that the protection of civilians is a fundamental right that must be guaranteed without exception.
The statement called for an immediate end to all violations, ensuring unimpeded access for humanitarian aid, and launching investigations to guarantee accountability and prevent impunity, in addition to protecting civil society organizations and human rights defenders. It also called on the regional and international community to strengthen humanitarian and human rights support for Sudan, condemning the international silence regarding crimes committed against civilians.
The center condemned any external support that contributes to prolonging the conflict, specifically mentioning the United Arab Emirates, which it accused of providing military, logistical, political, and media support to the militias, constituting a violation of international humanitarian law and a direct threat to Sudan’s security.
The statement also commended the efforts of Sudanese people inside and outside the country, and the international solidarity campaigns that have helped expose the violations and bring the suffering of civilians to regional and international forums. It affirmed the center’s commitment to continuing its work to promote human rights, build peace, and support the transition in Sudan.