😢 Sudan: US Determination of Genocide

Commons Chamber

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The UK Parliament urgently addressed the dire situation in Sudan following the US’s genocide determination, highlighting the ongoing conflict as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. MPs discussed the horrific atrocities, including murder, sexual violence, and famine, urging the UK to intensify its efforts in providing aid and ensuring accountability. The Minister for Development emphasized the UK’s support for international investigations and sanctions, while also committing to increased humanitarian assistance. There was a strong call for the UK to lead internationally to end the violence and protect civilians in Sudan.

Summary

  • The United States has determined that genocide is occurring in Sudan, particularly by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) against black African tribes in Darfur.
  • The UK acknowledges severe atrocities in Sudan, including murder, mutilation, sexual violence, and torture, but maintains that genocide determination should be done by courts, not governments.
  • The UK is actively supporting the International Criminal Court’s investigations into crimes in Darfur and has frozen assets of entities linked to the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
  • The UK has increased humanitarian aid to Sudan, emphasizing the need for this aid to reach those in need without obstruction.
  • Sudan is facing a catastrophic humanitarian situation with 25 million people needing urgent assistance and over 8 million internally displaced.
  • The looming famine in Sudan is a critical concern, with millions at risk of starvation, exacerbated by conflict and restrictions on aid delivery.
  • There is a strong call for the UK to exert more pressure on the warring factions for a ceasefire and to hold perpetrators accountable.
  • The UK, along with Sierra Leone, pushed for a UN Security Council resolution to protect civilians in Sudan, which was vetoed by Russia.
  • The UK is reviewing its sanctions policy in response to the conflict and is engaging with regional and international partners to address the crisis.
  • There are horrifying reports of gender-based violence, particularly against women and girls, with the UK supporting efforts to hold perpetrators accountable.
  • Efforts are underway to prevent the targeting of humanitarian aid workers, with about 50 killed since the conflict began.
  • The UK is engaging in diplomatic efforts and supporting international mechanisms like the UN Security Council and the African Union to seek a political solution and ceasefire in Sudan.
  • The UK is also focusing on ensuring humanitarian access to address the severe malnutrition crisis affecting millions of children in Sudan.

Divisiveness

The session shows a moderate level of disagreement, primarily focused on the issue of genocide determination and the UK’s approach to it. While there is consensus on the need for action and condemnation of the atrocities in Sudan, the disagreement centers around the UK’s reluctance to officially recognize the situation as genocide without a court determination, as highlighted by the US’s declaration. This disagreement is evident in questions from various MPs, such as Mr. Mitchell’s urging for more direct action and acknowledgment, and Chris Law’s challenge to the Minister’s stance on genocide determination. However, the overall tone remains constructive, with a focus on urging more action and support rather than outright confrontation, indicating a moderate rather than high level of disagreement.