African Union Urges Swift Ceasefire in Conflict Areas Due to Increasing Civilian Deaths

The African Union (AU) has urgently called for an immediate ceasefire in conflict zones across the continent due to a significant rise in civilian casualties. AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed grave concern over escalating violence, particularly in Sudan’s South Kordofan region, where recent attacks have killed over 100 civilians, including children. Youssouf condemned the deliberate targeting of civilians, educators, and medical personnel, emphasizing that these actions violate international humanitarian and human rights laws.

In light of these developments, the AU has demanded an unconditional ceasefire from all parties involved and called for the full protection of civilians, especially vulnerable groups such as children, women, and the elderly. Additionally, the AU stressed the importance of allowing unhindered humanitarian access to deliver lifesaving aid.

This call for peace reflects the organization’s previous appeals for ceasefires in other conflict regions, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Sudan’s Darfur region, reaffirming the AU’s commitment to safeguarding civilian lives and promoting peace throughout Africa.

The AU’s appeal highlights the urgent need for all conflicting parties to comply with international humanitarian laws and prioritize civilian protection. The organization is actively monitoring the situation and engaging with member states and international partners to foster dialogue and peaceful resolutions to ongoing conflicts.

The collective efforts emphasize the necessity of addressing the humanitarian crisis resulting from continued violence, ensuring that civilians are not disproportionately affected in these turbulent times.