Four prominent Sudanese human rights organizations have jointly called for the protection of civilians, truth, and justice on the first anniversary of the El Fasher events. The organizations - the Sudanese Observatory for Human Rights, the African Center for Justice and Peace Studies, the Darfur Lawyers Association, and the Khatim Adlan Center for Enlightenment and Human Development - emphasized the need for independent and transparent investigations. They also stressed the importance of accountability based on evidence and ensuring assistance to victims without discrimination.
The joint statement highlighted that the first anniversary of the El Fasher events serves as a reminder of the need for all parties to take responsibility for their actions. The organizations reiterated their commitment to monitoring and documenting human rights violations professionally and independently. They also emphasized the importance of protecting victims' rights and dignity, promoting the rule of law, and working towards justice. Furthermore, they called for an end to impunity and ensuring that those responsible for crimes are held accountable.
The El Fasher events, which occurred in October 2025, were marked by widespread violence, including killings, arrests, torture, and sexual violence. Reports from reliable sources documented these human rights abuses, along with looting and the destruction of essential infrastructure. The organizations expressed concern over escalating ethnic rhetoric, hate speech, and incitement to violence. They urged parties involved in the conflict to reject such rhetoric and to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for inciting crimes.
The organizations also called for the protection of detainees and transparency in investigations. They demanded that authorities disclose the whereabouts of detainees, ensure they can contact their lawyers, and provide necessary care. The organizations further urged independent investigations into deaths in detention and allegations of torture and ill-treatment. They emphasized the importance of allowing independent entities to access detention centers.
The humanitarian crisis in Darfur and Kordofan has worsened due to ongoing fighting and displacement. The organizations stressed the need to remove unnecessary obstacles to aid delivery, including security and logistical restrictions. They condemned attacks on relief trucks and restrictions on humanitarian workers. The organizations urged authorities to review procedures hindering humanitarian operations and ensure they are transparent and efficient.
The organizations emphasized the importance of accountability and reparations for victims. They called for investigations into crimes and prosecution of those responsible, in accordance with international human rights law and humanitarian law. They also urged national, regional, and international mechanisms to continue documenting and investigating human rights abuses. The organizations highlighted that victims' rights include knowing the truth, accessing effective remedies, and receiving reparations.
The organizations made several recommendations, including urging parties to the conflict to respect civilian protection rules and cease unlawful attacks. They also called for the release of detainees and an end to violence against humanitarian workers. Furthermore, they urged authorities to publish investigation results and ensure accountability. The organizations also called on donors and humanitarian agencies to take concrete steps to protect civilians and support international investigation mechanisms.
Key points
- The organizations demand independent and transparent investigations into human rights abuses.
- They stress the importance of accountability and reparations for victims.
- The organizations call for the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers.
