62nd Human Rights Council Session: Urgent Debate on the human rights situation in and around El Obeid, North Kordofan, in the context of the ongoing conflict in Sudan

Ambassador Ioannis Ghikas, Permanent Representative of Greece to the United Nations and other International Organisations in Geneva, made the following statement during the Urgent Debate on the human rights situation in and around El Obeid, North Kordofan, in the context of the ongoing conflict in Sudan: 

"Greece aligns with the EU statement.

We are deeply alarmed by the imminent risk of mass atrocities in and around El Obeid. The people of Sudan have already endured unimaginable suffering. They must not be condemned to yet another humanitarian catastrophe.

We call on all parties to the conflict to cease hostilities immediately, protect civilians, refrain from targeting public infrastructure, guarantee full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access, including through effective humanitarian corridors, and fully respect international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

We also call on all those who arm, finance or otherwise sustain the conflict to end their support without delay. Their actions fuel further violence and human suffering.

Accountability is indispensable. Those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses must be brought to justice through credible and independent mechanisms. Impunity only paves the way for further atrocities.

Greece actively supports the European Union's diplomatic, humanitarian and accountability efforts in Sudan. At the national level, Greece is also providing humanitarian assistance through HCR, WHO and other UN agencies.

The international community must act decisively and with urgency to ensure an immediate ceasefire and an inclusive political process, with full respect for Sudan’s unity and territorial integrity.

We have been warned of the risks. We must not fail the people of Sudan by allowing another mass atrocity to unfold.

I thank you."