During the 81st ordinary session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Human Rights Watch expressed grave concerns about the ongoing armed conflict in Sudan and its catastrophic impact on civilians. They highlighted severe violations of human rights, particularly by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) against ethnic groups in Darfur, amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity. Human Rights Watch called for a joint fact-finding mission to ensure access to humanitarian assistance and urged the Commission to condemn the atrocities committed against Sudanese civilians.
In a separate matter, the UK and Mauritius announced a political agreement regarding the Chagos Archipelago, planning to return sovereignty to Mauritius while maintaining UK control over Diego Garcia for another 99 years. Human Rights Watch criticized the lack of meaningful consultation with the displaced Chagossians, calling for their recognition as Indigenous people and for their right to return.
Additionally, escalating violence against civilians in Burkina Faso by armed groups was noted, along with serious human rights violations committed by Burkinabe security forces during counter-terrorism operations. Human Rights Watch urged the African Commission to take urgent action against these abuses and to improve civilian protections.