Brussels: In a resolution adopted by the European Parliament, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have denounced the grave and systematic violations of international humanitarian law and human rights committed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The resolution, passed with 503 votes in favor, 32 against, and 52 abstentions, highlights indiscriminate attacks against civilians, ethnically targeted violence, sexual violence, torture, deliberate starvation tactics, and the use of child soldiers, as well as attacks on hospitals and humanitarian facilities. These actions, according to MEPs, possibly constitute acts of genocide.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the European Parliament expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where famine has been confirmed in parts of the country. The conflict is exacerbating what is described as the most severe humanitarian catastrophe globally. MEPs have called on the warring parties to cease using starvation and sexual violence as weapons of war and to allow unfettered humanitarian access throughout Sudan. The resolution emphasizes the urgency of prioritizing the situation of women and girls, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict-related sexual violence.
MEPs have reaffirmed Sudan’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity, stressing the legitimacy of the civilian government in Khartoum. They reject any attempts to establish parallel or rival authorities in RSF-controlled areas. The resolution states that the primary responsibility for ending the conflict lies with the leadership of both the RSF and the SAF, as well as their allied militias and those providing them with support. Parliament condemns all forms of external interference in the war and urges external actors to respect the UN arms embargo.
The European Parliament supports efforts by the African Union and regional partners to facilitate a peace process. It calls on all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue to end the conflict and transition to civilian democratic governance. The resolution welcomes the joint statement by the QUAD (Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States) on ending the conflict in Sudan.
MEPs have voiced concerns over the potential spill-over of the conflict, particularly to the Horn of Africa and the Sahel, due to their vulnerability. They urge the EU to increase its humanitarian commitment of £273 million to the region. The resolution demands accountability for perpetrators and calls on the EU to support the expansion of the International Criminal Court’s jurisdiction to the entire Sudan. It also urges the EU to apply targeted sanctions to key RSF and SAF commanders, including Generals Burhan and Hemedti, for their involvement in serious violations of international humanitarian law.
Additionally, the resolution calls on the Council to urgently evaluate whether the RSF meets the criteria for inclusion on the EU’s ‘terrorist list’.