Statement by Deputy Permanent Representative of Slovenia to the United Nations Saša Jurečko at the UNGA Plenary meeting following Russia’s veto of a UNSC resolution on the protection of civilians in Sudan

Mr. President,

Thank you for convening this debate on the basis of Resolution 76/262.

Mr. President,

While we see today’s discussion in this Assembly as much needed, we regret that it arises from a veto cast in the Security Council on an issue that concerns us all: the protection of the most vulnerable, the civilians, enduring unimaginable suffering for more than 18 months of violence in Sudan.

The humanitarian toll of this man-made crisis cannot be overstated. The conflict has unleashed devastating realities for civilians, creating a crisis of almost incomprehensible dimensions. Violations of international humanitarian and human rights law are rampant:

• persistent indiscriminate targeting of civilians, including attacks on IDP camps, leading to mass displacement,
• unprecedented levels of acute food and water insecurity, leading to the risk of starvation for millions of civilians, and outbreaks of infectious diseases, including cholera,
• grave violations against children, and
• shocking levels of sexual and gender-based violence, including conflict-related sexual violence.

We fear that the full scale of these atrocities remains hidden, keeping much of the crisis in the shadows. Ensuring accountability is imperative to break this cycle of violence. We strongly support the ICC Prosecutor’s investigation into alleged genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur, with particular attention to sexual and gender-based violence.

This man-made crisis cannot persist. Slovenia has been steadfast in calling for an immediate ceasefire and protection of civilians in Sudan. We firmly believe it is a responsibility of the Security Council to respond to the plight of the people of Sudan by adopting measures to strengthen their protection. We therefore deeply regret that despite the shared understanding of 14 of its members, the Security Council was unable to act on this due to the use of veto by one member state.

Mr. President,

Cessation of hostilities is a priority and today, we renew our call to the warring parties to silence their guns, and uphold their commitments to protect civilians, including those outlined in the Jeddah Declaration. We call on the warring parties to fully adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.

Diplomatic efforts must intensify, humanitarian assistance must expand, and international resolve must strengthen. The responsibility to act lies with us all.

Safe, rapid, unimpeded and sustained access to humanitarian aid is essential. Access to food, water, healthcare, and medical supplies must not only be ensured but sustained and expanded. In this regard, Slovenia welcomes the extension of the opening of the Adre crossing and reiterates its call for all border crossings into Sudan to remain open and fully operational, so that life-saving aid can reach those in urgent need, as championed by the World Food Programme last week.

Finally, Mr. President, we reaffirm our support for the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Mr. Lamamra, in his efforts to resolve the crisis.

Slovenia will continue to advocate for the Sudanese people and for peace, security, and justice throughout the country.

I thank you.

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