Yvette Cooper has emphasized the global failure to recognize the pressing nature of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan, where reports detail widespread atrocities including mass killings, starvation, and the use of rape as a tool of warfare.
The Foreign Secretary strongly denounced the disturbing events in the Darfur region following the takeover of el-Fasher by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The Foreign Office highlighted that approximately 260,000 individuals, half of whom are children, are currently trapped in dire conditions resembling famine, isolated from aid and subjected to deadly violence.
During a summit in Bahrain, Ms. Cooper, together with foreign ministers from Germany and Jordan, united in urging for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing civil conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese military since 2023.
In an interview with the Sunday Mirror, she criticized the lack of attention given to Sudan by world leaders and stressed the need for urgent action to address the crisis affecting about 8 million people, equivalent to the population of London.
Ms. Cooper underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire in Sudan, increased humanitarian aid, and protection of civilians, particularly women and girls, from the escalating violence and atrocities.
Recently, Ms. Cooper announced a pledge of £5 million in emergency aid from the UK, including provisions for food and medical supplies, with a specific allocation of £2 million to assist survivors of sexual violence.
The Foreign Secretary expressed concern that progress in safeguarding women during conflicts has regressed since a UN resolution passed 25 years ago. She emphasized the importance of refocusing efforts on combating violence against women and girls, both within conflicts and as a central aspect of foreign policy and international cooperation.