Amnesty International has revealed that French military technology is being used in UAE-manufactured APCs by the RSF in Sudan, which likely violates the UN arms embargo. The organization calls for an immediate halt to arms supplies to all conflicting parties and emphasizes the need for France to cease supporting the Galix defense system shipping to the UAE to uphold international law and human rights.
Amnesty International has uncovered that French-manufactured military technology integrated into armoured personnel carriers (APCs) produced in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is currently being utilized on the battlefield in Sudan. This situation is likely to breach the United Nations arms embargo on Darfur. The human rights organization identified that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are deploying Nimr Ajban APCs equipped with the Galix defensive system, manufactured by French companies Lacroix Defence and KNDS France. Images verified by Amnesty International reveal that this system is present on APCs that have been destroyed or captured by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The Galix system is designed to protect military vehicles from close-range threats by deploying decoys and smoke. Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International, expressed concern about the use of French weaponry in Sudan, emphasizing the need for France to halt its defence system supplies to the UAE. Amnesty International called for an immediate cessation of arms supplies to all parties involved in the conflict, urging that compliance with the UN Security Council’s arms embargo on Darfur is imperative to prevent further civilian casualties. In previous communications with relevant companies and the French government, Amnesty International has not received any response to its inquiries about the matter. The organization highlighted the long-standing military cooperation between France and the UAE, which resulted in significant arms exports to the UAE in recent years. The European Union has enforced an arms embargo on Sudan since 1994, which prohibits the sale and transfer of military arms and equipment. Furthermore, France is obligated under international law to prevent arms exports that pose a risk of contributing to human rights violations. The need for comprehensive human rights due diligence in business operations, especially in conflict-affected regions, is underscored. Amnesty International has advocated for an expansion of the arms embargo to cover the entirety of Sudan and enhance monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance with international law.
The conflict in Sudan has raised significant concerns regarding the flow of arms and military technology to warring factions, notably the Rapid Support Forces. The international community, particularly the UN and EU, has imposed arms embargoes to mitigate violence and protect civilian populations. However, violations, such as the reported use of French systems in UAE-manufactured APCs by the RSF, highlight the challenges in enforcing these regulations. The case brings attention to the responsibilities of countries and companies exporting military equipment, particularly in conflict zones.
In summary, Amnesty International’s investigation exposes a serious breach of the UN arms embargo by highlighting the use of French military technology in Sudan. It calls for immediate actions to cease arms supplies, enforce compliance with international regulations, and expand current embargo measures to safeguard civilians in conflict. The response from French authorities and defense contractors remains critical in mitigating the risks associated with military exports that could exacerbate human rights abuses.
Original Source: www.dabangasudan.org
