TYFA Condemns Atrocities in Sudan: Calls for Urgent International Action and Extension of the UN Fact-Finding Mission

The Youth Future Alliance (TYFA) expresses its deep alarm following the recent release of the “War of Atrocities” report by the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) on Sudan. The report monitors crimes committed by both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), placing civilian lives at the Centre of deliberate and systematic violence.

According to the report FFM:

According to the report FFM: Both SAF and RSF have carried out large-scale attacks on civilians and destroyed vital infrastructure essential for survival, including hospitals, markets, food and water systems, and displacement camps. Both sides have engaged in summary executions, arbitrary detention, and torture, leaving civilians to bear the heaviest price. The report explicitly supports the extension of the Fact-Finding Mission's mandate, underscoring the urgent need to continue collecting evidence, preserving documentation of atrocities, and holding perpetrators accountable. As highlighted by the UN Human Rights Council (60th Session): “The Fact-Finding Mission remains the only independent investigative body documenting and reporting on these violations … Its mandate must be extended to secure justice for victims and support long-term peace in Sudan.”

TYFA's Observations and Concerns

While TYFA respects and supports the findings of the FFM, we raise the following additional observations for consideration:

Imbalance in Attribution of Atrocities:

While both parties are responsible for grave violations, the SAF, as the institutional national army mandated to protect the Sudanese people, must be held to a higher standard of accountability. From the outset of the conflict, and continuing to this day, the SAF remains the only actor with air power. Its reliance on aerial bombardments has caused widespread and indiscriminate destruction, killing and displacing large numbers of civilians, and devastating civilian infrastructure. These actions require stronger emphasis and scrutiny in ongoing monitoring and accountability efforts.

Omission of Chemical Weapons Use:

TYFA is gravely concerned that allegations of the SAF's use of chemical weapons against civilians in several locations were not addressed in the report. These allegations demand urgent investigation, as such acts may constitute war crimes.

The “Strange Faces” De Facto Law:

TYFA highlights the introduction of the so-called “Strange Faces Law” De Facto Law, reportedly being enforced by the SAF to target civilians suspected of RSF affiliation based on their ethnicity. This law has facilitated profiling, arbitrary arrests, imprisonment and torture including that of pregnant women and children under 7 years old, creating new layers of fear and repression.

Bias in Humanitarian and Civil Society Structures:

Historically, most humanitarian and civil society organisations allowed to operate in Sudan have had affiliations with the SAF and the past regime, which systematically restricted independent organisations from working unless they aligned with state ideology. Many of these organisations remain run by actors with ties to the state and continue to receive funding either openly or indirectly. This dynamic risks bias in reporting and humanitarian delivery and must be taken into account and closely monitored by the FFM and the wider international community.

Youth Exclusion from Decision-Making:

Sudan's youth remain among the most impacted by the conflict yet continue to be excluded from accountability and peace processes. TYFA has not been given the opportunity to present evidence or participate meaningfully in decisions that determine the country's future.

TYFA's Position

As a youth-led movement committed to justice, peace, and the protection of human rights, TYFA:

Condemns in the strongest terms the atrocities and war crimes documented in the report.

Calls for the immediate extension of the UN Fact-Finding Mission in Sudan to ensure accountability and prevent impunity.

Urges the international community, including the African Union, United Nations, and International Criminal Court (ICC), to take urgent steps toward justice.

Demands protection of civilians, particularly youth, women, and displaced communities who are most at risk.

Insists on the opening of humanitarian corridors without delay, ensuring access to food, medicine, and aid for all affected populations.

Reaffirms the role of youth in peacebuilding and calls for their direct inclusion in accountability and transitional justice processes.

Commits to supporting the FFM with evidence from the ground, including testimonies from youth and communities often overlooked in formal investigations.

TYFA's Statement

"We cannot let legal norms be forgotten while civilians suffer. Sudan's youth will not accept "war" as an excuse for depriving people of dignity, safety, or life. The extension of the Fact-Finding Mission, and an unwavering application of the Geneva Conventions, are non-negotiable steps toward accountability, justice, and a future that protects all our people. TYFA stands ready to provide further evidence and to ensure that youth voices are finally heard in shaping Sudan's future."

About TYFA

The Youth Future Alliance (TYFA) is a grassroots youth-led organisation committed to promoting peace, justice, and human rights across Africa. Through advocacy, evidence-gathering, and international engagement, TYFA empowers young leaders to shape inclusive and just societies.

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Mariam Shaw - Participates in Key Discussions on International Humanitarian Law in Geneva

Geneva, Switzerland - The Youth Future Alliance (TYFA) recently participated in significant discussions held in Geneva concerning International Humanitarian Law and the ongoing relevance of the Geneva Conventions. While not a numbered "59th Convention," these crucial meetings brought together international stakeholders, legal experts, and humanitarian organisations to address contemporary challenges in protecting civilians during armed conflict and ensuring respect for human rights.

TYFA's representatives contributed to dialogues on the impact of modern warfare on vulnerable populations, the role of youth in promoting peace and upholding international law, and the importance of humanitarian access in conflict zones. The discussions highlighted the enduring principles of the Geneva Conventions in an evolving global landscape and the need for continued commitment to these foundational agreements.

TYFA's Representatives Contributed to Dialogues

TYFA's participation underscores its dedication to advocating for the rights and protection of communities affected by conflict, particularly in regions like Sudan. By engaging in these international forums, TYFA aims to amplify the voices of those most impacted by humanitarian crises and contribute to strengthening the framework of international humanitarian law.

Our approach combines grassroots organising, education, and direct action to address the most pressing peace challenges of our time. From urban reforestation to clean water initiatives, and human rights, we're working to build a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Our Global Reach

Operating in multiple regions, we partner with civil society, governments, and humanitarian agencies to address the root causes of conflict and promote a sustainable, just peace. Our projects span across East Africa, the Middle East, and diaspora communities in Europe.

Empowering communities affected by conflict, injustice, and disaster by promoting human rights, providing humanitarian relief, and cultivating a culture of peace through education, dialogue, and sustainable development. We strive to amplify the voices of the marginalized, support survivors, and inspire youth to lead the movement toward justice, equality, and lasting peace.

Our approach combines grassroots organising, education, and direct action to address the most pressing peace challenges of our time. From urban reforestation to clean water initiatives, and human rights, we're working to build a more sustainable and equitable future for all.