The Sudanese Delegate’s Speech at the UN: Justifying Violations or Evading Responsibility?

 

 

On November 12, Sudan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Al-Harith Idris, delivered a speech at the General Assembly that carried contentious messages. While the delegate attempted to defend Sudan’s government under Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, numerous contradictions emerged that stand in stark contrast to the situation on the ground.

In his speech, Al-Harith Idris claimed that the Sudanese government is committed to protecting civilians. However, field realities contradict this assertion. The Sudanese army has been accused of severe violations against civilians in conflict zones, including bombing residential areas and targeting safe havens. These actions raise questions about the government's seriousness in fulfilling its promises.

The Sudanese delegate welcomed Russia’s veto of international resolutions aimed at holding parties accountable for the conflict. This stance reflects evident foreign interventions supporting the Sudanese army and raises concerns about dubious alliances that deepen the crisis instead of resolving it.

Al-Harith Idris accused the Security Council of lacking impartiality, demonstrating the Sudanese government’s disregard for international organizations and permanent member states. This accusation is seen as an attempt to divert attention from the government’s failure to manage the humanitarian and political crisis in Sudan.

The delegate announced that Burhan had issued a decision allowing aid organizations to deliver humanitarian assistance. However, his skepticism about the roles of these organizations suggests that the army is using this issue as a political tool. Politicizing aid undermines international efforts to address the crisis and exacerbates civilian suffering.

Instead of acknowledging the government and army’s shortcomings, the delegate accused international parties of conspiring against Sudan. This rhetoric reflects a clear evasion of responsibility and a lack of a genuine vision to address the crisis.

The Sudanese delegate’s speech at the United Nations was an attempt to polish the image of the government and army, but it revealed stark contradictions between official rhetoric and ground realities. Continuing these policies will deepen the crisis and isolate Sudan from the international community. The Sudanese government must reconsider its positions and prioritize the interests of its people above political or military considerations.

Strengthen the role of international organizations in monitoring humanitarian conditions.

Pressure the Sudanese government to halt violations against civilians.

Support peace initiatives led by civilian actors.

#SudanCrisis #ProtectCivilians #InternationalJustice