The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, described the situation in Sudan as “hell” for its people during a visit on Sunday. Approaching its third year, the war between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is being intensified by advanced weaponry, particularly drones, at the expense of critical humanitarian aid.
Since the conflict began in April 2023, tens of thousands have been killed and approximately 11 million people have been displaced, creating the world’s largest displacement crisis. According to the UN, over 21 million people are facing severe food insecurity, with two-thirds of the population in urgent need of assistance.
During his visit to Port Sudan, Turk condemned the immense funds being channeled into arms instead of “alleviating the suffering of the population.” He also highlighted the “increasing militarisation of society by all parties,” which includes arming civilians and the recruitment of children as soldiers.
The High Commissioner referenced “unbearable” atrocities documented in Darfur and warned that similar crimes are now occurring in the Kordofan region, the current center of the fighting. “The commanders of this conflict and those who are arming, funding and profiting from this war” must be held accountable for these actions, Turk stated.
Foreign interference remains a significant factor in the conflict. The United Arab Emirates has been accused of supplying the RSF with weapons and support, though Abu Dhabi denies these claims. The Sudanese army is reportedly backed by Egypt and Saudi Arabia and has received drones and other arms from Iran and Turkey.
Turk called for an end to attacks on civilian infrastructure such as markets, hospitals, and schools, stating that such actions could constitute “war crimes.” He urged that perpetrators face justice “regardless of their affiliation” and warned that the siege and attacks on key cities in Kordofan could replicate the mass killings and other abuses seen last year in El-Fasher.
