On the threat of famine following the spread of conflict in Sudan

B90072/2024

Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the threat of famine following the spread of conflict in Sudan

(2024/2505(RSP))

The European Parliament,

–having regard to its previous resolutions on Sudan,

–having regard to the Universal declaration on Human Rights,

–having regard to Rule 144 of its Rules of Procedure,

A. Whereas the violent conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues to be the main driver of life-threatening and acute food insecurity in Sudan affecting 20 million people, corresponding to 42% of the population.

B. Whereas the RSF’s uprising has led to intensified fighting throughout the country internally displacing 5.8 million people; whereas this has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in neighbouring states and throughout the region;

C. Whereas around 12,000 people have been killed in the conflict; whereas in November 2023 it was reported that ethnic violence against the Massalit community escalated in South and West Darfur presenting a serious risk of genocide; whereas the U.N. has stated that the RSF has been using rape and other forms of sexual violence on a large scale.

D. Whereas the conflict has resulted in acute shortages of food, water, medicines and fuel. whereas Gezira’s and Northern State’s food production, which provides 22% of Sudan’s total wheat has been severely interrupted

E. Whereas it is reported that the RSF have looted up to a month’s worth of humanitarian supplies from aid agencies, supplying up to 1.5 million people.

F. Whereas it has become increasingly challenging for humanitarian assistance to reach those trapped in conflict areas namely Khartoum, Kordofan, and Darfur; whereas the conflict has led aid agencies to relocate their staff.

G. Whereas the European Commission mobilised EUR 126.4 million of humanitarian assistance to support the people of Sudan in 2023;

1.Strongly condemns the continuing violence between the rival armed factions in Sudan, human rights violations and the widespread use of sexual violence. Deplores the repeated attacks by the RSF and allied militias against civilians in West Darfur, predominantly targeting the Massalit community.

2.Calls on all parties to immediately put an end to hostilities, halt attacks on infrastructure and humanitarian assistance and permit unfettered humanitarian access throughout the country. Calls for the resumption of negotiations for a peace agreement; fully supports all regional and international efforts in this regard.

3.Calls for the EU and its Member States to increase emergency funding for the humanitarian response in refugee camps and increase assistance throughout West Darfur and neighbouring countries. Underlines the need for specific support for the protection, care, treatment and support mechanisms for survivors of sexual violence.

4.Calls for the EU to impose targeted sanctions on those responsible for serious human rights abuses. Calls for action at the UN Security Council to sanction violations of the UN arms embargo on Darfur and to expand this throughout the country.

5.Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Government of Sudan, the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces, the African Union, the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the Pan-African Parliament.