United States Ambassador and Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs Jeffrey DeLaurentis today said “ongoing acts of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity” impedes stability in Sudan.
In his remarks at a UN Security Council meeting on Darfur and the International Criminal Court, Mr. DeLaurentis said the United States places a high priority on promoting lasting peace for all of the people of Sudan.
“Accountability is an essential component for achieving this durable peace, and the absence of it not only harms the people of Darfur, but impedes stability in Sudan.” -Mr. DeLaurentis
He reported that the Council confronts the on-going aerial bombardments conducted by Sudanese Armed Forces in Darfur, Southern Kordofan, Blue Nile, and across the border in South Sudan. He stressed that it is important to reflect on the incomplete nature of justice for crimes committed in Darfur.
“The need to ensure accountability for those responsible for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity in Darfur is not just a moral imperative but a political one: the lack of accountability for such actions remains a strong negative precedent that continues to influence the conduct of the parties today.” -Mr. DeLaurentis
He stressed that the United States is deeply concerned by the portions of his report detailing allegations that could be part of “ongoing acts of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.”
“In particular, we find deeply disturbing the reports being monitored by the Prosecutor’s office of alleged attacks either targeting or indiscriminately affecting civilians by pro-government forces. These include allegedly indiscriminate shootings in North Darfur IDP camps as well as alleged kidnappings and executions in Abu Zereiga.” -Mr. DeLaurentis
He stressed that the report highlights the continued presence of children in various forces, including pro-government forces and rebel movements.
He stressed that the United States continue to be concerned by ongoing reports of widespread sexual and gender-based violence in Darfur and of instances of victimization of female IDPs and refugees.
“We also strongly urge the Government of Sudan to uphold its commitments under the Doha Document for Peace in Darfur signed between the Government of Sudan and the Liberation and Justice Movement to ensure accountability.” -Mr. DeLaurentis
