UN Human Rights Council 41: Sudan

Thank you, Madam Vice-President.

The Sudanese people have shown bravery and perseverance in their dignified demands for a better future, and an end to authoritarian rule. We support their right to freedom of expression and assembly.

The UK welcomes the important progress made in agreeing a transition to civilian led government in Sudan. We commend the efforts of all sides to reach an agreement, and the African Union and Ethiopia for their critical role in mediating the deal. However, there is a long road ahead.

Despite this important progress the UK condemns in the strongest terms the brutal attacks by Sudanese security forces against peaceful protesters on 3 June. Attacks, which resulted in the deaths of over one hundred and the injury of many more. Attacks that included sexual assaults and the targeting of hospitals and those providing medical treatment to injured protesters. We welcome the commitment made by the parties in Khartoum to an independent and tranparent investigation.

Sudan has received significant attention at this Council for many years, and we must not lose sight of the wider human rights situation and the past abuses. After decades of brutal autocratic rule in Sudan, the UK remains hopeful that Sudan’s political transition will result in a civilian administration that is committed to upholding the rights of the Sudanese people, and we stand ready to support.

We call on this council to work with the Sudanese authorities to provide technical assistance and support for the development of relevant human rights’ mechanisms to help Sudan meet it’s international commitments and responsibilities, including through the opening of an in country OHCHR office.

The UK will continue to monitor the situation, with an aim of working with the Sudanese authorities to consider potential further steps. How can the international community play its part in achieving peace and stability in Sudan?

Thank you, Madam Vice-President.