Silence on Sudan is deafening

THE EDITOR, Madam:

In Sudan, the sound of clashing factions echoes once again, marking another chapter in the country’s tragic history of infighting. However, this perpetual cataclysmic fighting is not unique to Sudan, but rather a global issue that transcends ethnicity and geographical boundaries. While violence against humanity occurs worldwide, what is concerning is the lack of international condemnation when such acts happen on the African continent, in Haiti, Latin America, and in Asia.

This lack of empathy and support is exemplified by the recent clashes in Sudan, where approximately 200 people have lost their lives, and rival groups are still expressing repudiation towards a permanent ceasefire. Despite the occasional statement from the United Nations, the silence from major international players is deafening.

In contrast, when acts of violence occur in Western Europe, instantaneously, the world collectively denounces such actions. The support shown through hashtags, social media, and other acts of unity and empathy is palpable. But, unfortunately, the same energy is not put into condemning acts of violence on the African continent.

This apathy towards African lives, or non-white lives for that matter, must change. It is up to us to put the same energy into condemning acts of violence in Africa as we would if it happened in Western Europe. We must value African lives, as all lives are important.

YANNICK PESSOA