Document
The people of El Fasher have endured an 18-month RSF siege in the context of the brutal civil war that has torn the country apart since April 2023. Accounts given by people who have escaped from the latest violence, as well as other reports, indicate ethnically-motivated mass killings, other war crimes and crimes against humanity, and widespread destruction in the city. Drone strikes, artillery shelling, and attacks on civilian areas—including mosques, displacement camps, and shelters—are widely reported, and represent a devastating escalation of human suffering in the region.
Among other atrocities, a tragic attack on a mosque in El Fasher’s Al-Daraja neighbourhood, where displaced persons from the Abu Shouk camp had sought refuge, underscores the urgent need for the protection of civilians and sacred spaces. Such acts are morally indefensible and constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law and human rights.
The WCC demands that RSF leadership immediately stop the unconscionable attacks on civilians and other brutal violence being inflicted by their forces in El Fasher. We appeal for the preservation and protection of lives and communities in the region. We stand in solidarity with the people, churches and religious communities of Sudan who continue to endure unimaginable hardship amid conflict, displacement, and hunger. We call upon all parties to the conflict, especially the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces, to cease hostilities immediately and to engage in meaningful dialogue for a just and lasting peace.
We urge the international community, the African Union, and regional organizations to intensify diplomatic and humanitarian efforts to end the violence, protect civilians, and ensure adequate humanitarian assistance to all those displaced and otherwise affected by the violence.
As a fellowship of churches committed to justice and peace, the WCC continues to accompany the people of Sudan in prayer and advocacy. We urge all people of faith to stand with the victims and to raise their voices against violence and impunity.
May God, the source of peace and comfort, strengthen the people of Sudan, heal the broken-hearted, bring humanity and compassion into the hearts of the perpetrators of the violence, and guide the nation toward reconciliation and hope.
Rev. Dr Prof. Jerry Pillay
General Secretary
World Council of Churches
