Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is urgently calling on the German government to escalate its efforts in protecting civilian populations within Sudan, particularly in the besieged city of El Fasher, where a humanitarian crisis unfolds with alarming brutality. Christian Katzer, Managing Director of MSF Germany, highlighted in statements to the Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers that the international community is witnessing a “shocking catastrophe” that demands immediate intervention.
The organization argues that diplomatic pressure and tangible political action from Berlin are critical to halting the escalating violence and establishing secure routes for civilians attempting to flee El Fasher before it’s too late. MSF’s plea specifically emphasizes the desperate need for protection for those most vulnerable – individuals experiencing ethnic and sexual violence. Katzer contends that robust international pressure, spearheaded by key players like Germany, is the only viable pathway toward safeguarding them.
The human rights organization expresses profound concern over the currently inaccessible conditions facing humanitarian aid workers. Unfettered and secure access is absolutely essential to ensure that life-saving assistance can reach the beleaguered civilian population. MSF reports an environment of “brutality against civilians” that is difficult to articulate and details the severe consequences for those escaping the prolonged siege.
Observations from MSF staff assisting displaced individuals in Tawila, a town located 60 kilometers from El Fasher, reveal a grim reality. According to Katzer, a staggering three out of four children examined presented with acute malnutrition, a direct consequence of the ongoing conflict and deliberate deprivation. The severely strained local hospitals are overwhelmed with patients suffering from starvation and trauma-related injuries, exacerbating an already critical shortage of medical supplies and basic resources. “Currently, everything is lacking” states Katzer.
MSF insists that a concerted and effective response from the international community is now more vital than ever. Resources including food, potable water, medical supplies and emergency shelter must rapidly reach North Darfur. To achieve this, MSF asserts that the German government must visibly and proactively demonstrate its commitment, moving beyond symbolic gestures to implement tangible diplomatic and political action. The current level of engagement is deemed insufficient to prevent further devastation.
