Sudanese Observatory for Human Rights: January 2024 Report on Military Operations, Displacement, and Health Conditions in Sudan

Sudanese Observatory for Human Rights: January 2024 Report

Background:

Military operations persist across Sudan, with seven states witnessing ongoing clashes and new states joining the conflict, disrupting civilian stability and exacerbating displacement challenges. These operations impact food security, medical care, and disproportionately affect vulnerable groups like children and women. Furthermore, military actions have led to the destruction of universities and educational centers, affecting agricultural sectors and threatening wheat cultivation projects, exacerbating food insecurity and famine threats in several states.

Continued Displacement Crisis:

As the new year begins, military operations in states like Al Jazirah, West Kordofan, Sennar, and Gedaref escalate, leading to a surge in displacement, with over 9.05 million individuals seeking refuge in safer areas. The first week of January witnessed the opening of approximately 126 new displacement sites across various states.

Civilian Situation:

Widespread clashes in Al Jazirah have resulted in a mass exodus, with an estimated 600,000 citizens displaced as of December 18, 2023. Notably, over 50% of the displaced population originates from Khartoum. Reports indicate civilians facing violence, theft, and extortion during their escape, with instances of threatened sexual assault reported.

Military attacks on Northern Darfur's El Fasher city and Abu Shouk camp on February 1 have further exacerbated displacement, straining shelter capacities and disrupting medical and food aid. Similarly, in West Kordofan's Babanusa city, widespread military attacks on January 23 displaced approximately 50,000 individuals, impacting food security and essential services.

In South Kordofan, attacks by RSF forces on Al Abbasiya locality led to the displacement of around 2,000 people, exacerbating food and health challenges, particularly for women and children.

Health Conditions:

According to the World Health Organization, Sudan has recorded over 1,850 cholera cases and 26 associated deaths in Al Jazirah alone as of December 15. Overall, more than 8,530 cholera cases and 231 deaths have been reported across nine Sudanese states. Challenges in water quality monitoring, healthcare resources, and waste management contribute to the spread of diseases.

Civilian Detentions:

Arbitrary detentions add to civilian suffering, occurring both in conflict zones under RSF control and during attempts to reach safe areas. Reports indicate the arrest of seven individuals in Darfur and Al Jazirah. Instances of forced disappearances, torture, and interrogation further compound civilian plight, highlighting the need for urgent intervention to safeguard human rights.

Conclusion:

The Sudanese Observatory for Human Rights emphasizes the urgent need for international intervention to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Immediate action is required to hold perpetrators accountable, provide essential aid to displaced populations, and restore stability to the region.