Norway Condemns Violations of Humanitarian Law in Sudan, Calls for Accountability

Oslo – Norway, alongside a coalition of international partners, has issued a strong condemnation of violations of international humanitarian law occurring in Sudan, specifically highlighting the alarming violence against civilians. The joint statement calls for swift and impartial investigations into potential war crimes and crimes against humanity, and emphasizes the need to hold perpetrators accountable.

International Outcry Over Sudan Conflict

The statement, released on December 8, 2025, denounces the “heinous violence against civilians, especially women and children,” and all serious breaches of international humanitarian law. It is signed by key figures including Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, and British Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper.

Focus on War Crimes and Accountability

The international coalition asserts that the observed violations “may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity.” They demand immediate, thorough, and impartial investigations into these alleged crimes, with a clear call for those responsible to be brought to justice. This underscores a growing international effort to address the escalating humanitarian crisis and ensure accountability for atrocities committed during the ongoing conflict.

Recent Concerns in Kordofan Region

Minister Eide recently expressed extreme concern over reports of increasing civilian casualties in Sudan’s Kordofan region, stemming from airstrikes, artillery shelling, and summary executions. He warned against allowing Kordofan to suffer a fate similar to El Fasher, where mass killings and atrocities have already occurred. Eide reminded the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of their obligation to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access, and urged all armed parties to shield civilians from harm, specifically refraining from airstrikes in populated areas. He also called on nations with influence over the RSF to exert pressure to prevent further atrocities. Source: Norwegian Government

Diplomatic Efforts and Meetings

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide recently engaged in diplomatic talks in Munich, meeting separately with Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris, as well as his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul. Source: Sudan Horizon These meetings likely focused on de-escalation efforts and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Norway’s Stance on South Sudan Tensions

In a separate statement, Minister Eide also addressed escalating tensions in South Sudan, reaffirming Norway’s commitment to peace and stability in the region. Source: Norway in South Sudan

Espen Barth Eide: Background

Espen Barth Eide has served as Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs since October 16, 2023, and previously held the position from 2012 to 2013. He is a member of the Labour Party and has also served as Minister of Climate and the Environment and Minister of Defence. He was appointed as a United Nations special adviser on Cyprus in 2014, serving until 2017. Source: Wikipedia