US-Sponsored Peace Talks Begin in Geneva to End Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis

Geneva, Switzerland – The US-sponsored peace talks aimed at ending the hostilities in Sudan, one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, have begun in Geneva. However, it appears that the talks will start without the presence of the warring parties, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).

According to James Elder, spokesperson for UNICEF, the UN Children’s Agency, thousands of children have been killed or injured in Sudan’s war, which began in April last year. Elder highlighted the staggering statistics, stating that five million children have been forced to flee their homes, with an average of 10,000 girls and boys displaced every day, making Sudan the world’s largest child displacement crisis.

Elder also emphasized the increasing sexual violence and recruitment, and the dire situation where an ongoing humanitarian presence remains denied.

Tom Perriello, the US special envoy for Sudan, expressed his concerns about the lack of commitment from the SAF, stating that they have not yet given an affirmation necessary for moving forward. Perriello emphasized the importance of reaching an action plan to advance to a cessation of violence, have full humanitarian access, and establish a monitoring enforcement mechanism.

The US envoy also highlighted the need for SAF to commit to arriving with a delegation that can make decisions, stating that it would be preferable to mediate with the parties. Perriello confirmed that the RSF has committed to participating if there is a commitment from SAF, and that the US is keeping all options open.

The first round of peace talks is expected to last up to 10 days, with Perriello expressing his hope to have “at least some in-person conversations, which is by far the best opportunity to make progress.”