Yvette Cooper has expressed concern over the global lack of awareness regarding the urgent humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where reports indicate widespread atrocities such as mass killings, starvation, and the use of rape as a tool of warfare.
The Foreign Secretary strongly condemned the disturbing events unfolding in the Darfur region following the takeover of el-Fasher by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Approximately 260,000 individuals, including a significant number of children, are currently facing famine-like conditions with limited access to aid and exposed to lethal violence.
During a summit in Bahrain, Ms. Cooper, alongside foreign ministers from Germany and Jordan, advocated for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing civil conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese military that has been ongoing since 2023.
Reflecting on the crisis, Ms. Cooper emphasized the need for world leaders to prioritize addressing the situation in Sudan, pointing out that around 8 million people are on the brink of famine, equivalent to the population of London. Despite the severity of the crisis, she highlighted a concerning lack of urgency in the international response.
Ms. Cooper highlighted the harrowing atrocities resulting from the RSF’s actions in el-Fasher, where a substantial number of children remain trapped amidst executions and sexual violence, including the use of rape as a weapon of war. She stressed the importance of securing a ceasefire, providing humanitarian assistance, and safeguarding civilians, particularly women and girls, from such appalling violence.
In a recent announcement, Ms. Cooper pledged £5 million in emergency aid from the UK, earmarking £2 million specifically for supporting survivors of sexual violence and providing essential supplies like food and medical assistance.
Addressing the regression in protecting women during conflicts, Ms. Cooper referenced past efforts by figures like Angelina Jolie and William Hague in combatting sexual violence as a weapon of war. She called for a renewed focus on combating violence against women and girls as a central aspect of international cooperation and foreign policy, highlighting the need to strengthen protections and support for survivors.
In conclusion, Ms. Cooper underscored the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of women and girls in conflict zones and urged for concerted efforts to address this critical issue on a global scale.