Statement by the Tánaiste on the situation in Sudan

The situation facing people in Sudan is appalling. I am deeply concerned about the truly shocking number of people who have been forced from their homes, as well as the widespread reports of abuses against civilians, particularly women and girls.

Ireland has provided over €12 million in humanitarian assistance to the Sudanese people so far this year in direct response to the worsening situation. This funding is providing life-saving humanitarian care for people displaced in Sudan, as well as to refugees who have fled across borders into neighbouring countries.

I recently visited Kenya and Ethiopia and discussed the crisis in Sudan with the Governments in both countries. In addition to providing humanitarian aid, I committed to using Ireland’s voice to demand a ceasefire, humanitarian access, protection of civilians and accountability for human rights abuses.

Ireland has been to the fore in calling for the establishment of an EU sanctions regime to pressure the parties to come back to the negotiating table, permit humanitarian access and end attacks on civilians.