Christopher Lockyear of MSF briefed the UN Security Council about the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, decrying the conflict as a “war on people.” He highlighted rampant violence against civilians, malnutrition, and rising infectious diseases while calling for enhanced international response and support to meet urgent humanitarian needs.
On October 23, Christopher Lockyear, the Secretary General of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), addressed the United Nations Security Council regarding the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan. He characterized the conflict as a catastrophic “war on people,” calling for immediate action to end violence against civilians and enhance essential aid delivery.
Lockyear emphasized the indiscriminate bombing of populated areas by the Sudanese Armed Forces and highlighted the brutality inflicted by the Rapid Support Forces and allied militias. Such actions have led to systematic sexual violence, abductions, looting of humanitarian aid, and the occupation of medical facilities, significantly impacting civilian infrastructure and humanitarian efforts.
MSF operates across 11 states in Sudan and has reported alarming rates of malnutrition, while infectious diseases are on the rise. The upcoming rainy season exacerbates the need for urgent food and medical supplies for those affected by the conflict.
Lockyear criticized the international community’s lack of an adequate response, citing that the situation continues with little accountability or resource allocation. “While statements are made in this chamber, civilians remain unseen, unprotected, bombed, besieged, raped, displaced, deprived of food, of medical care, of dignity,” he remarked, urging a reevaluation of strategies toward humanitarian aid and civilian protection.
He concluded by stating, “The crisis in Sudan demands a fundamental shift away from the failed approaches of the past. Millions of lives depend on it.”
In summary, Lockyear’s address to the UN Security Council underscores the urgent need for action in Sudan, where the ongoing conflict has led to widespread humanitarian suffering. The call for increased commitment to civilian protection and humanitarian aid is critical as the war continues with a troubling disregard for human life. Strengthening the international response is essential to alleviate the catastrophic impact of the war and deliver necessary relief to those affected.
Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.ca
