Nearly two dozen countries attended the talks, co-hosted by the United Nations and Switzerland, to explore de-escalation measures and a transition towards inclusive civilian governance.
UN Secretary-General Personal Envoy for Sudan Pekka Haavisto urged participants to use diplomatic channels to build confidence and create conditions for a comprehensive ceasefire. “Our first session, devoted to de-escalation, will offer an opportunity to explore practical ways forward,” Haavisto said.
The fighting began in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces, former allies that jointly seized power in 2021.
Drone attacks targeting civilians and public infrastructure have increasingly characterised the conflict. “The war in Sudan has become a drone war. It kills mostly civilians,” Switzerland State Secretary Alexandre Fasel said.
“Famine-like conditions persist in Darfur, Kordofan and elsewhere in the country. It is the war that drives this hunger.”
Almost 34 million people across Sudan require humanitarian assistance, while around 8 million children are out of school.
Fasel said civilian protection and humanitarian access could not be delayed until a ceasefire or political settlement was reached. “The Geneva Conventions are very clear: the protection of civilians and humanitarian access must not wait for a ceasefire and a political solution,” Fasel said.
“Civilians are suffering and dying today.”
Delegates are also considering how international mediators can support a Sudanese-led transitional process reflecting the aspirations and diversity of the population. “Our role is to support the Sudanese in shaping their country’s shared future, with due regard for the diversity of their voices and experiences,” Haavisto said.
Neither the Sudanese government nor the RSF attended because the Consultative Meetings on Enhancing Coordination of Peace Initiatives and Efforts in Sudan were established to coordinate mediators rather than negotiate directly with the parties.
Haavisto was also expected to meet partners from the Quad, comprising Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and US.
Engagement also includes the Quintet, bringing together the African Union, Intergovernmental Authority on Development, UN, European Union and League of Arab States.
The talks followed separate humanitarian discussions involving UN officials, delegations and international organisations operating in Sudan.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
