We are seeing the worst humanitarian crisis of the 21st century – in Sudan. The catastrophic situation has left 33 million people, including children, desperate for humanitarian assistance.
Sudan is a top priority for the UK Government, which is why the Foreign Secretary and our representatives at the UN continue to spotlight this issue at an international level. The Government wants to see unimpeded humanitarian access, the protection of civilians and an end to the fighting so we can work with the Sudanese people to deliver long-term peace.
I was distressed to read the results of the fact-finding mission in El-Fasher, which featured the most distressing accounts, and we continue to see and hear reports of human rights abuses even now. All parties must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, and protect civilians.
Women and children are bearing the brunt of the violence. I am troubled that 25% of the population – 12 million people – are estimated to be at risk of sexual violence in Sudan. Those who carry out sexual violence must be held accountable.
The UK is the third largest Sudan donor, providing $200 million dollars in humanitarian support to those in the country. However, aid alone won’t stop this suffering, which is why I support the Government in continuing to call for an immediate humanitarian truce and a pathway to a permanent ceasefire.
The UK is doing what it can to raise the profile of the crisis in Sudan, encouraging other donors to commit funding to reach the 2026 UN funding goal. I will continue to support the UK Government as it continues to engage with the warring parties and international partners both to call for civilian protection and to seek to achieve peace.
Thank you to those constituents who have written to me about this issue.
Best wishes
Rt Hon Hilary Benn
MP for Leeds South
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland