Thank you Mr. President,

After over 2.5 years of conflict, Sudan continues to face widespread impunity. The FFM Report is clear on the extent of the violations taking place, by both parties to the conflict, amounting to international crimes. My colleagues have already underscored the importance of allowing the Mission to continue its valuable work. The NL echoes these statements and is proud to be part of the Core Group on this important resolution.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is particularly concerned about the horrifying details of the sexual and gender based violence which is taking place in Sudan. This violence, aimed primarily but not exclusively at women and girls, is shocking. It is shocking both in its scope, and the sheer number of victims, but also in the barbarity of the crimes being committed. The report details rape, gang rape, forced nudity, abduction, sexual slavery, and forced marriage of girls as young as 12.  For the sake of the survivors of this violence, and to prevent – as much as we can – further sexual violence, accountability will be crucial, in addition to support for victims. 

Another most disturbing finding in the report is that hunger is being wielded as a weapon of war in Sudan. Widespread attacks on humanitarian facilities, convoys, and workers, along with imposed bureaucratic restrictions prevent humanitarians from providing life saving assistance. El Fasher has been under siege for more than 500 days and the 260.000 people there remain trapped under appalling conditions. This is a horrific example of the use of prohibited siege tactics by the Rapid Support Forces with devastating humanitarian consequences, including famine.  We echo the recent call of the High Commissioner for the siege on El Fasher to be lifted immediately and for all parties to ensure the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance and the creation of safe evacuation corridors for civilians. 

This willful starvation of civilians as a method of warfare must stop now and the perpetrators must be held accountable. The FFM is the only independent body to fully investigate and document all violations and abuses committed throughout the whole of Sudan. Therefore, this council must allow the FFM to continue its valuable work. We call on all members of the council to support L.18. 

I thank you.