The Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at its 1154^th meeting, held on 16 May 2023, received a Briefing on the Evolution of the Situation in Sudan.

Council recalled all its previous decisions on the situation in Sudan, in particular, Communiqué [PSC/PR/COMM.1049 (2023)] adopted at its 1149^th meeting, held on 16 April 2023, as well as the Statement, issued on 15 April 2023, by H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairperson of the AU Commission.

Council expressed solidarity with the people of Sudan in their quest for peace, stability and the restoration of constitutional order through a democratic, inclusive, civilian-led government, while reaffirming respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence, and national unity of the Republic of Sudan.

Council reiterated strong condemnation of the ongoing unnecessary and unjustified conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, resulting in an unprecedented dire humanitarian crisis, and the wanton looting and destruction of civilian infrastructure, as well as diplomatic missions, in violation of International Law, International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights including the Vienna Conventions. In this regard, Council warned that all perpetrators of criminal actions will be held accountable. 

Council reiterated the demand for an immediate, unconditional, and comprehensive ceasefire, necessary for the resumption of humanitarian assistance to the increasingly desperate civilian population in Sudan.

Furthermore, Council commended the efforts being deployed by the AU Commission, through the Chairperson’s good offices, as well as the support provided by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa-CDC) and the PRC Subcommittee on Refugees, Returnees and Displaced Persons, to help alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese population.

Council commended the neighboring countries of Sudan for receiving Sudanese refugees and facilitating safe passage for evacuees. Council appealed to the neighboring countries to continue to open their doors to support refugees in African solidarity. It also called on the humanitarian agencies to scale up their support for neighboring countries.

Based on the coordination role being played by the AU Commission with the Expanded Mechanism, Council reiterated the imperative of enhanced collaboration and complementarity of efforts in the Sudan peace process by the international community. Council called on the Chairperson of the AU Commission to continue using his good offices to engage with the warring parties to facilitate a genuine and inclusive dialogue and peaceful resolution of the conflict.

While noting the ongoing talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Council reiterated the need for inclusivity; and renewed the call for the urgent resumption of a fully inclusive political process that brings on board all Sudanese political and social actors, including women, youth, and marginalized groups.

Council agreed to remain actively seized of the matter.  

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