Statement by Legal Action Worldwide (LAW) on the Human Rights Violations During the Conflict in Sudan 

Statement by Legal Action Worldwide (LAW) on the Human Rights Violations During the Conflict in Sudan 

27 February 2025 

Mr President, Honorable Minister, distinguished representatives, colleagues 

Since April 2023, when open hostilities broke out in Sudan’s capital, widespread and brutal conflict related violations and abuses have occurred, likely to amount to international crimes. 

This is predominantly affecting civilians, and more specifically women and girls. Women and girls have been targeted throughout the conflict with thousands reporting conflict related sexual violence, with no avenues for justice. Women and girls across Sudan have been raped, gang raped and undergone sexual slavery. As reported by the High Commissioner, hundreds of civilians have been arbitrarily detained and abducted, characterised by torture and cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment. Men and boys have been beaten, humiliated and psychologically abused while in these detention centres. Numerous humanitarian personnel have been targeted and killed, a complete violation and disregard for international humanitarian law. The list of civilian targets goes on. With no transparent and legitimate justice system in Sudan, there has been no justice for those that have suffered these serious human rights violations both in and outside Sudan, at the hand of all parties.

“They treated me as if I were not human”, stated one survivor of sexual violence.

We must pursue accountability of perpetrators, and ensure survivors access the justice that they want. We urge all members states to lead this effort, and to support accountability avenues outside of Sudan, including through the use of universal jurisdiction.

The costs of inaction are increasing every day. The Sudanese people deserve justice!