Statement on the Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect the Civilians of Sudan

'This is an important first step in much needed negotiations. However, the parties’ commitment to uphold international humanitarian and human rights law, and to respect the humanitarian principles, only becomes meaningful if it leads to actual changes on the ground.'

'The Parties must take concrete actions to ensure that international humanitarian and human rights law is fully respected and implemented. In particular, all feasible measures must be taken to ensure the protection of civilians against harm caused by military operations. The parties must also ensure full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to civilians in need of humanitarian assistance and protection, ' said Huitfeldt. 

'The Sudanese people have suffered immensely since fighting broke out on 15 April and the country is in extreme duress. The Parties must therefore agree to a formal ceasefire as soon as possible. The international community will stand ready to support the implementation of a credible ceasefire, ' said Huitfeldt. 

'Stopping the fighting will not by itself end the political crisis. Only an inclusive political process can deal with the fundamental questions now confronting the people and the state. The only sustainable solution is to re-establish the democratic transition, building on the achievements that have been reached since the 2019 Revolution, and respecting the aspirations of the Sudanese people. Norway remains committed to work with and for the people of Sudan. We will pursue this commitment in co-operation with regional actors and likeminded partners,' said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt.