In a published statement ahead of the visit, One year ago, on 26 October 2025, the violence in and around El Fasher reached a devastating peak following months of siege and escalating attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Civilians were subjected to horrific atrocities including mass killings, ethnically motivated killings, summary executions, torture, disappearances, forced recruitment, arbitrary detentions, and widespread sexual and gender-based violence. Entire communities were forcibly displaced, and humanitarian access was obstructed, exacerbating hunger, insecurity, human suffering and deprivation. This event, as outlined in a joint statement released today by the members of the Coalition for Atrocity Prevention and Justice for Sudan, marks the first anniversary of the violence – a grim reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan (Diplomatie.gouv.fr).
Background
The Coalition for Atrocity Prevention and Justice for Sudan was established to respond to the unfolding situation in Sudan. Prior to this joint statement, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs had engaged in bilateral discussions with Sudanese civil society organizations and international partners regarding the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation. The statement reflects ongoing collaboration with the African Union’s Fact-Finding Mission, and its collaboration with the UN. The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan had previously documented the scale and severity of violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of international human rights law committed in and around El Fasher.
Analysis
The statement reveals a persistent and deeply concerning situation in Sudan. The continued risk of further large-scale atrocities, as highlighted by the Coalition, stems from the ongoing conflict between the RSF and other armed groups. The worsening humanitarian needs and protection risks, compounded by the growing use of drones in attacks affecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, necessitate immediate action. Restrictions on humanitarian access and repeated attacks on humanitarian actors, local and frontline responders are unacceptable, and are compounding the suffering of millions of Sudanese civilians. The Coalition’s focus on justice and accountability reflects a recognition that a military solution is unattainable and that sustained efforts are required to address the underlying drivers of the conflict.
Implications
The anniversary of the El Fasher atrocity has significant implications for regional stability. The continued violence in Sudan poses a direct threat to neighboring countries and contributes to broader instability in the Sahel region. Restrictions on humanitarian access and repeated attacks on humanitarian actors, local and frontline responders are unacceptable, and are compounding the suffering of millions of Sudanese civilians. The situation demands a coordinated international response, including continued pressure on all parties to comply with international humanitarian law and a renewed commitment to supporting credible accountability processes, including the work of the International Criminal Court concerning Darfur.
Outlook
Should the visit yield a renewed commitment to a ceasefire, as the Coalition advocates, the situation would remain precarious. If the use of drones continues to escalate, the risk of further civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure will increase. If humanitarian access remains restricted, the humanitarian crisis will deepen, potentially leading to widespread famine and disease. The Coalition’s continued work, coupled with sustained international pressure, is essential to prevent further atrocities and achieve a lasting peace.
Conclusion
The anniversary of the El Fasher atrocity underscores the urgency of securing a durable resolution to the conflict in Sudan. The question remains: will the international community demonstrate the sustained political will and practical resources needed to ensure justice, accountability, and ultimately, a peaceful and stable future for the people of Sudan?
