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Dear World Leaders,
As the death toll in Darfur continues to mount, it is clear that nothing short of unified international action is needed to protect the people of Darfur. I call on you as political leaders, to ensure international action is taken as a matter of urgency.
Over 400,000 people have lost their lives in Darfur since the government-sponsored genocide began in 2003. More than 2.5 million people have been displaced; their livelihoods and villages destroyed by government forces and their proxy militias, and many thousands of women and girls have been raped by these forces. Recent reports confirm that the government-sponsored violence continues in Darfur, and that the security situation is deteriorating. The humanitarian crisis that forms part of the genocide is escalating, as the government of Sudan continues to obstruct humanitarian operations, creating famine conditions for millions of vulnerable people.
Dear leaders, the most important priority must be providing protection to the people of Darfur. The African Union (AU) has shown important leadership, and its mission in Darfur is doing what it can on the ground in the face of growing insecurity. But the AU cannot address this crisis alone, and the support pledged by the world is not nearly enough. Genocide is an international crime, a crime against humanity, and it requires an international response.
Unless there is an urgent international action, up to a million people may be dead by the end of this year. The world community must act to: (1) stop the killing and provide security for millions of internally displaced people (IDPs); (2) facilitate the urgent delivery of humanitarian assistance; (3) enforce the cease fire and provide a stable environment for meaningful peace talks to proceed; (4) facilitate the voluntary return of IDPs to their land and the reconstruction of their homes by providing a secure environment; (5) hold accountable, those responsible for the crimes against humanity committed against the people of Darfur.
I urge you to immediately take the following steps to support urgent steps to stop genocide in Darfur: First, follow the lead taken by the U.S. and publicly recognize that genocide is taking place in Darfur. Second, assert leadership at the United Nations (UN) by circulating a resolution calling for a stronger civilian protection mandate for the African Union mission and for a broader international force under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter. Third, demand that all those suspected of crimes against humanity committed against the people of Darfur should be brought to Justice.
Genocide is a unique crime and it requires a unique and urgent response. We can still save thousands of lives in Darfur if we act now.
Sincerely,
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