António Guterres (Secretary-General) on the protection of civilians in armed conflict – Security Council, 9327th meeting

[All-English version]

Mr. President, President Berset, Excellencies.

I thank the Government of Switzerland for convening this important debate. And President Spoljaric for joining us.

Mr. President,

Less than six weeks have passed since war erupted in Sudan. In that time:

Hundreds of civilians have been killed – including members of the United Nations family;

250,000 people have fled the country;

Hospitals have been occupied and attacked;

The price of goods is reported to have quadrupled in parts of the country;