Amnesty International Statement on Sudan's blockade of humanitarian aid

Amnesty International Statement April 4, 2006 condemns Sudan's blockade of humanitarian aid . The Statement points out this latest trend does not affect only international NGOs - on 13 March 2006, SUDO was ordered by HAC to close its offices in al-Jeneina, capital of West Darfur State, and Zalingei, West Darfur State.

Also, a further concern is the enactment of new legislation regulating the work of NGOs - excerpt:

"Amnesty International calls on the government of Sudan to abide by its repeated commitments to cease the obstruction of humanitarian aid. The undue delay and/or often unreasonable withholding of travel permits and exit visas should cease. Illegal closure and suspension of humanitarian organisations must also be halted.

Amnesty International also calls on the President of Sudan not to sign into effect the 'Organisation of Humanitarian and Voluntary Work Act, 2006' until all provisions that contravene international standards on freedom of association and the Sudanese Interim National Constitution are amended.

Note, Mar 15 2006 Sudan closes offices of rights group