The Aligned for Advancing Lifesaving and Peace in Sudan (ALPS) Group recently issued a statement calling on the warring Sudanese parties to ensure the safe passage of humanitarian aid in the country. Comprised of members such as Saudi Arabia, the United States, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, the African Union, and the United Nations, the group has reiterated their commitment to working with international partners to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people and achieve a cessation of hostilities agreement. The group has been engaging with the warring parties to expand emergency access to humanitarian aid and strengthen the protection of civilians across Sudan.
Since their formal session in Switzerland, the ALPS Group has been actively involved in efforts to provide emergency aid to the people of Sudan. The agreement to open the Adre border crossing to humanitarian operations and guarantees for access along the Dabbah Road have already facilitated the movement of emergency aid into famine-stricken areas of Darfur. This aid will provide immediate assistance to nearly a quarter million people. The group has also called for the expansion of aid access into the heartland of Sudan and urged the SAF and RSF to ensure safe passage of humanitarian aid along various roads in the country.
In addition to opening additional border crossings for the passage of assistance through direct routes, the ALPS Group has expressed their shared commitment to working with other international partners to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people. The group has offered condolences for lives lost during recent events in Sudan, including the collapse of the Ar Rabat dam and violence between warring parties. The ALPS Group has also raised concerns about clashes in El Fasher, North Darfur, leading to the displacement of thousands of people, particularly impacting women and girls who face continued violence and looting by armed groups.
The ALPS Group has emphasized the need to protect all civilians, including internally displaced persons (IDPs) in camps, and ensure compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL) to prevent further human suffering. The group has also highlighted their intent to incorporate the perspectives of Sudanese women leaders into their efforts. This recent meeting is the first of many scheduled follow-up meetings for the ALPS Group, as they continue to work towards addressing the urgent needs of the Sudanese people. The group stands ready to reconvene virtually as needed to further advance their efforts in Sudan.
