Geneva: The Permanent Mission of the Republic of Sudan to the United Nations in Geneva organized a high-level side event on the margins of the Human Rights Council sessions, dedicated to highlighting the situation of civilians amid the conflict, with particular focus on the suffering of women and girls, as well as showcasing national efforts to protect them.
According to Sudan News Agency, the event was opened by Sudan’s Permanent Representative to Geneva, Ambassador Hassan Hamid, who welcomed the large attendance, including representatives of states, international organizations, UN agencies, legal and human rights experts, and media personnel. In his opening remarks, he emphasized that the event aimed to provide a comprehensive picture combining firsthand field testimony with an institutional overview of national protection and accountability efforts. Presenters included the State Minister at the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Welfare, Dr. Suleima Izhaq; Rapporteur of the National Mechanism for the Protection of Civilians Major General (Police) Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Abakr Al-Dago, and Sultan of the Masalit Saad Abdel Rahman Bahr El-Din.
Sultan Bahr El-Din delivered vivid and shocking testimony that left the audience deeply moved, recounting what he witnessed in El-Geneina and its surroundings during the militia’s assault, including unprecedented massacres in a region historically known for peaceful coexistence among its communities. He described horrifying instances of indiscriminate killings and ethnic-based executions targeting the Masalit and other African-origin tribes. The Sultan also detailed the systematic targeting of women and girls, including rape, torture, and the dragging of corpses through the streets.
A significant portion of the Sultan’s testimony focused on the killing of Wali Khamis Abakr and the desecration of his body, as well as his own escape from El-Geneina after most of his family, including his brother, were killed. He highlighted that approximately two hundred children were evacuated with him in a perilous exodus, pursued by the militia, who subjected survivors fleeing toward Chad to killing, torture, and abuse.
Meanwhile, Major General (Police) Al-Dago outlined the institutional framework of the National Plan for the Protection of Civilians, explaining that the mechanism coordinates efforts among relevant authorities, monitors violations, and initiates and follows up on criminal complaints before the national judiciary. He noted the challenges to implementing the plan amid continued rebel militia attacks and complex security conditions, stressing that supporting and building the capacity of national institutions is essential for strengthening protection and achieving stability.
In her remarks, State Minister at the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Welfare, Suleima Izhag emphasized that women and girls were among the most affected groups in the conflict. She outlined the role of the unit combating violence against women in developing national policies, enhancing psychosocial support services for survivors, and adopting a victim-centered approach that preserves dignity and privacy. The Minister further highlighted that protecting women and girls is not only a humanitarian response but a fundamental step toward rebuilding conflict-affected communities and reinforcing social cohesion.