July 17.

The Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) reaffirms its commitment to justice for survivors of atrocities in Darfur and calls for urgent action to end ongoing violations and impunity.

On International Justice Day, observed each year on July 17, the Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) stands in solidarity with victims and survivors of mass atrocities across Sudan, especially in Darfur, where the quest for justice remains as urgent as ever. This day, which commemorates the adoption of the Rome Statute and the founding of the International Criminal Court (ICC), reminds the world of its shared responsibility to pursue accountability for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.

DNHR uses this occasion to shine a spotlight on the ongoing violence in Darfur, including recent killings, forced displacement, and targeted attacks on civilians, which continue to occur with widespread impunity. Justice delayed is justice denied, and Darfur cannot wait any longer.

A Call to Sudanese Authorities and the International Criminal Court

As we commemorate International Justice Day, the Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) urgently calls upon the Sudanese authorities and the International Criminal Court (ICC) to fulfill their respective obligations to ensure truth, justice, and redress for the people of Darfur.

 To the Sudanese Authorities:

We call on the de facto authorities and transitional institutions in Sudan to:

1. Cease all forms of violence and protect civilians from further attacks, particularly in areas under the control of armed forces or militias.
2. Fully cooperate with the ICC, including by arresting individuals subject to international arrest warrants, such as Ahmed Haroun, Abdel Raheem Muhammad Hussein, and Ali Kushayb.
3. Ensure access for humanitarian and human rights organizations to monitor violations and provide life-saving aid to affected populations.
4. Initiate transparent national accountability mechanisms that are victim-centered, inclusive, and aligned with international human rights standards.
5. End the climate of impunity that has enabled the resurgence of ethnically targeted violence and organized criminal operations in cities like Zamzam camp for IDPs – Al Fasher North Darfur , Nyala, El Geneina, and Zalingei.

To the International Criminal Court (ICC):

We urge the ICC and its Prosecutor to:

1. Accelerate investigations into ongoing crimes in Darfur and expand the scope of inquiry to include recent atrocities committed since April 2023.
2. Prioritize outreach and engagement with victims and survivors, ensuring their voices shape the pursuit of justice.
3. Publicly report on the Sudanese government’s cooperation—or lack thereof—with the Court and explore mechanisms for enforcement through the UN Security Council where needed.
4. Maintain pressure for the surrender of fugitives still at large and uphold the principles of non-selective justice.

 Justice Is Not Optional, It Is Urgent

The people of Darfur have endured two decades of atrocities, cycles of mass displacement, and countless broken promises. Justice is not a luxury—it is a fundamental right. Without genuine accountability, there can be no durable peace, no reconciliation, and no future rooted in dignity.

On this International Justice Day, DNHR renews its unwavering commitment to the struggle for justice, and calls on all responsible actors, national and international, to act now, before history repeats itself once again.