Sudan: To Permanent Representatives of Member and Observer States of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council (Geneva, Switzerland)

Civil society organizations are urging the UN Human Rights Council to extend the mandate of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) for Sudan for an additional two years, effective prior to the 63rd session of the Council from September 7 to October 7, 2026. The FFM is tasked with investigating ongoing grave violations and abuses of international human rights and humanitarian law, collecting evidence, and identifying perpetrators to ensure accountability.

The mission remains crucial in addressing impunity that fuels atrocities in Sudan, as the warring parties continue to disregard international law. The Council should provide the FFM with adequate financial resources and expertise to enhance its capacity and capacity-building efforts for the UN system. The FFM's cooperation with African regional human rights mechanisms, such as the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, is essential for reinforcing efforts to protect civilians, advance accountability, and support sustainable peace.

The Council should consider a two-year renewal framework for the FFM's mandate to facilitate strategic planning and address staffing issues. Strengthening the FFM is complementary to reporting by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the international community should work towards breaking the cycle of impunity and violence in Sudan through comprehensive accountability measures.