Yvette Cooper has emphasized the lack of global awareness regarding the pressing humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan. Disturbing reports have surfaced detailing mass atrocities, including killings, starvation, and the use of rape as a weapon of war.
The Foreign Secretary strongly denounced the horrific events unfolding in the Darfur region following the takeover of el-Fasher by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Approximately 260,000 individuals, half of whom are children, are currently trapped in dire conditions resembling famine, isolated from humanitarian aid and facing grave threats of violence, as highlighted by the Foreign Office.
During a summit in Bahrain, Ms. Cooper, alongside foreign ministers from Germany and Jordan, called for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing civil conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese military since 2023.
In an interview with the Sunday Mirror, she underscored the need for world leaders to prioritize ending the Sudanese conflict with the same level of urgency as seen in other crisis zones like Gaza. Ms. Cooper expressed dismay over the lack of attention given to the Sudanese humanitarian crisis, involving around 8 million people at risk of famine – equivalent to the population of London – with no sense of urgency evident.
She stressed the urgency of securing a ceasefire in Sudan, providing humanitarian aid and protection, and safeguarding civilians, particularly women and girls, from the rampant violence and atrocities.
Recently, Ms. Cooper announced a commitment of £5 million in emergency aid from the UK, aimed at providing essential supplies such as food and medical assistance, with a specific allocation of £2 million to support survivors of sexual violence.
The Foreign Secretary highlighted a concerning regression in efforts to protect women during conflict situations since the passage of a UN resolution 25 years ago. She advocated for a renewed focus on combatting violence against women and girls as a central aspect of international cooperation and foreign policy, emphasizing the need to address this critical issue effectively.
