UN Security Council Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in Sudan
The United Nations Security Council is currently deliberating on a draft resolution aimed at establishing an immediate ceasefire in Sudan. The resolution, proposed by Britain and Sierra Leone, emphasizes the urgent need for an end to hostilities, the protection of civilians, and the unimpeded access of humanitarian aid. It urges all parties involved in the conflict to cease hostilities and engage in constructive dialogue to de-escalate tensions, ultimately working towards a nationwide ceasefire.
The draft resolution also highlights the necessity for the parties to adhere to commitments made in 2023, which include protecting civilians, preventing conflict-related sexual violence, and ensuring safe humanitarian access throughout Sudan. Additionally, it calls on member states to refrain from external interference that could exacerbate the conflict and urges compliance with the arms embargo on Darfur. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is tasked with exploring a potential system for monitoring and verifying the ceasefire.
Britain's Role and Aid Commitment
As the current president of the Security Council, Britain is actively seeking support from other member states for the resolution. British Foreign Secretary David Lamy is set to lead the discussions and has announced a significant increase in Britain's aid to Sudan, doubling it to $285 million. Lamy has expressed a firm commitment to ensuring the protection of civilians and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian assistance, stating, "the UK will never leave Sudan to forget."
Despite optimism from some diplomats regarding the resolution's adoption, there are concerns about its potential effectiveness. Previous resolutions, including one from March 2023 calling for an immediate ceasefire, have had limited impact. The ongoing power struggle between Sudan's military and the Rapid Support Forces, which erupted in April 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of over 11 million people, with 3.1 million fleeing the country. The UN reports that 26 million people in Sudan are currently facing severe food shortages.
