G7 Backs Quad Initiative to End Sudan’s War and Launch Civilian Dialogue

The Group of Seven (G7) called on external actors to stop providing military, logistical and financial support to the parties to the conflict in Sudan. It also urged the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to comply with international humanitarian law and engage in negotiations with the Quad to reach a permanent ceasefire and ensure unimpeded humanitarian access.

In a joint statement issued following a meeting of foreign ministers in Paris, the group affirmed that it was “deeply concerned about the devastating consequences of the war on the Sudanese people and the growing risk of famine in parts of the Darfur and Kordofan regions.”

The statement noted that “the continued fighting, restrictions on humanitarian access, and drone attacks targeting healthcare facilities, displacement camps and food-related infrastructure are putting civilian lives at risk.” It also highlighted that the effects of the El Niño phenomenon are further exacerbating the humanitarian situation.

G7 foreign ministers condemned violations and abuses committed against civilians, including conflict-related sexual violence against women and girls, one year after the atrocities witnessed in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State.

The G7 statement called on external actors to use their influence to urge the warring parties to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, lift restrictions on humanitarian access, work towards de-escalation and refrain from any actions that could contribute to prolonging the conflict.