Sudan is a “powder keg” on the verge of exploding into chaos, the UN’s human rights chief has warned, calling for urgent global action to prevent mass deaths from famine and atrocity crimes.
Volker Turk, addressing the Human Rights Council, described a “humanitarian catastrophe” where five areas, including the Zamzam displacement camp, are already gripped by famine.
“Sudan is… at increasing risk of atrocity crimes and mass deaths from famine,” he said.
Nearly 8.8 million people have been displaced within Sudan since fighting erupted in 2023, with 3.5 million fleeing to neighbouring countries. Only 30% of hospitals are functioning, and disease outbreaks are rampant in overcrowded camps.
Mr Turk said human rights violations, including sexual violence and child recruitment, were widespread and could constitute war crimes. He urged warring parties to engage in peace talks and allow humanitarian access.
He also called on the international community to enforce an arms embargo on Darfur and consider extending it nationwide, urging countries with influence to apply diplomatic and political pressure for a ceasefire.
“We need urgent action now, to find a path to peace,” he said.
The conflict between the General Abdel Fattah al Burhan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has killed tens of thousands, with some estimates putting the death toll far higher than official figures.