UN Human Rights Council Launches Investigation into Alleged Violations in El Fasher, Sudan

The United Nations Human Rights Council has initiated an urgent investigation to identify individuals responsible for alleged human rights violations in El Fasher, Sudan. This decision was made during a special session convened to address the situation in the city.

The independent fact-finding mission on Sudan has been tasked with investigating violations of international law by all parties involved, with a focus on identifying suspects to ensure accountability. United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, urged the international community to take decisive action, criticizing the lack of effective response to the atrocities against civilians. He described the situation as a "blatant display of cruelty to subjugate an entire people" and called for measures against those who profit from the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

The conflict in Kordofan has persisted for over two and a half years, marked by bombardments and sieges as the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese army engage in hostilities. The capture of El Fasher by the Rapid Support Forces on October 26 has further solidified their control over the Darfur region.

Mona Rashmawi, a member of the United Nations International Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan, emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation to document instances of rape, murder, and torture in El Fasher. She stated that the Rapid Support Forces have transformed El Fasher University into a site of violence, where many civilians sought refuge, and witnesses have reported bodies in the streets and trenches around the city.