Amnesty International: Internet Shutdown Threatens Humanitarian Services in Sudan
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Amnesty International has called for the full restoration of communication services across Sudan. It urged the Sudanese armed forces and the Rapid Support Forces to refrain from cutting off the internet, as it is a lifeline for civilians. The organization also appealed to the international community to increase and enhance humanitarian aid to Sudan.
Sarah Jackson, Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa at Amnesty International, stated in a Friday statement, "The ongoing blackout on communications is unacceptable; it endangers the lives of millions. As millions of Muslims in Sudan prepare to celebrate the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, Amnesty International calls for the full restoration of communication services throughout Sudan."
She added that the disruption of communications and the internet limits the ability of millions of Sudanese to communicate with their families, search for safe areas from the fighting, and access life-saving necessities, as well as receiving mobile money services.
Amnesty International explained that the shutdown of the internet hinders human rights monitors and advocates from documenting real violations due to the internet shutdown. More than 15 human rights defenders, interviewed by Amnesty International in Kenya and Uganda, stated that they faced difficulties in documenting ongoing violations in most parts of Sudan since the start of the communication shutdown.
The organization pointed out that the work of humanitarian aid providers on the front lines has been severely affected. Emergency Response Rooms relief efforts, including evacuation needs, identifying safe routes, transportation options, and access to food, water, electricity, shelter, and other basic necessities, have been severely hampered. It warned that Emergency Response Rooms efforts are on the verge of paralysis.
Quoting five Emergency Response Room program coordinators, whom Amnesty International met, they said they face difficulties in coordinating with their colleagues on the ground to deliver food and other basic necessities to local communities.
One of the representatives currently outside Sudan said, "Due to the internet blackout, we cannot communicate with our volunteers, and we cannot purchase food and medicine and provide these services to those in need. Most of our kitchens in Greater Khartoum are inactive, so they are not working. We are also unable to purchase and deliver medicines and other medical equipment to the extremely limited health facilities still operating in the city."
Jackson stated, "The power outage is already affecting vulnerable residents who have been enduring the conflict for almost a year now. Without communication, humanitarian operations and emergency services are likely to come to a complete halt, jeopardizing the lives of millions."
The organization mentioned that internet communication remains a challenge in many areas of Sudan, despite reports of gradual restoration in some regions.
