African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights Expresses Grave Concern Over Escalating Violence in North Darfur, Sudan

Strategic Insights -

The African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, through Honourable Commissioner Hatem Essaiem, has expressed deep concern over the continued escalation of violence, mass atrocities, and humanitarian crisis unfolding in El Fasher, North Darfur, Sudan. Credible reports indicate that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) operations have been accompanied by grave breaches of international humanitarian law and serious violations of international human rights law. Thousands remain trapped in the city, with no access to food, medicine, or safe evacuation routes, amounting to collective punishment and acts that may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Key Takeaways:

  • The African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights expresses deep concern over the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in El Fasher, North Darfur, Sudan.
  • Credible reports indicate that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) operations have been accompanied by grave breaches of international humanitarian law and serious violations of international human rights law.
  • Thousands remain trapped in the city, with no access to food, medicine, or safe evacuation routes, amounting to collective punishment and acts that may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
  • The Commission highlights the devastating impact on civilians, including attacks against civilians, killings, rape, torture, looting, and destruction of civilian infrastructure.
  • The Commission reiterates the findings and recommendations of its Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) on Sudan, published during its 85th Ordinary Session on 21 October 2025.
  • The Commission calls for the full and urgent implementation of these recommendations, including the establishment of an independent accountability mechanism, unimpeded humanitarian access, and stronger protection for civilians.
  • The Commission welcomes the conclusions of the 1305th Emergency Meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) and its condemnation of atrocities and grave human rights violations committed by the RSF.
  • The Commission echoes the Council's rejection of all forms of external interference, which undermines the right to self-determination of the people of Sudan.

Statistics:

  • Thousands of civilians remain trapped in El Fasher with no access to food, medicine, or safe evacuation routes.
  • The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) operations have resulted in grave breaches of international humanitarian law and serious violations of international human rights law.
  • The humanitarian crisis in El Fasher, North Darfur, Sudan, may amount to collective punishment and acts that constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Sources:

  • African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR)
  • Honourable Commissioner Hatem Essaiem, Country Rapporteur for the Republic of Sudan
  • Honourable Commissioner Solomon Ayele Dersso, Focal Point on Human Rights in Conflict Situations
  • African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC)
  • Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) on Sudan, published during its 85th Ordinary Session on 21 October 2025