Geneva: Sudan's Permanent Representative in Geneva, Ambassador Hassan Hamid Hassan, delivered a powerful statement on Wednesday during the opening session of the 38th Standing Committee on Programmes and Finance of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
According to Sudan News Agency, the Ambassador emphasized the Government of Sudan's gratitude towards the organization and its country office for their crucial role in aiding those affected by the humanitarian and displacement crisis in Sudan. Ambassador Hassan recounted the severe atrocities and crimes leading to forced displacements, attributing them to a proxy war initiated by the rebel Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, allegedly backed by a regional sponsor.
Ambassador Hassan reported an increase in the voluntary return of citizens to their homes, with over 3.3 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) returning, along with approximately one million Sudanese who have voluntarily returned from asylum countries to Khartoum and other states. Despite facing limited resources, extensive destruction, and systematic sabotage of strategic service infrastructure by the rebel militia, the government is working tirelessly to bolster security, stability, and the provision of basic services. He appealed for support from the international community to reinforce these efforts to facilitate voluntary return and address the immediate needs of returnees.
He also highlighted the escalating challenges in regions like Kordofan, where the rebel militia continues to target civilian infrastructure such as electricity and water stations, health facilities, and schools, aiming to destabilize and displace populations and obstruct recovery efforts.
Ambassador Hassan addressed the plight of Sudanese nationals abroad, emphasizing the dangers of irregular status and exploitation by smuggling and human trafficking networks. He urged IOM to enhance its protection, advocacy, and support for voluntary return pathways, regular migration channels, family reunification, and opportunities for regulated migration and employment.
In his conclusion, Ambassador Hassan underscored the need to address the root causes of the displacement crisis by ending external interference and halting military and financial support to the rebel militia. He stressed the importance of preventing the flow of weapons and mercenaries, alongside supporting national efforts to restore peace, stability, and recovery in Sudan.