Statement of U.S. Senator Russ Feingold
On Ending the Genocide in Darfur
As Prepared for Delivery at the September 21st Press Conference
September 21, 2006
The situation in Darfur is dire and tragic. More than two years have
elapsed since the U.S. Government labeled the atrocities being committed
against innocent civilians as genocide, and yet the killing has continued
and accelerated in recent weeks as the Government of Sudan has launched
a new military offensive.
Unfortunately, the U.S. Congress hasn’t been able to act on this
issue. Leaders like Senator Brownback and others here today have tried;
many of us have worked hard to draw attention to this issue here in
Washington. We must take specific and concrete actions now if we want
to help stop the genocide occurring in Darfur.
First, the United States must work directly to support the courageous
but inadequate African Union peacekeeping force that has been doing
its best to protect the people of Darfur for more than two years. It
needs serious help, though, if it’s going to protect innocent
civilians. We’re not talking a few million dollars here or there.
The AU needs serious assistance, and we need to be prepared to look
at all of our options, including support from NATO.
Second, we need to continue to lay the ground work for the rapid deployment
of a robust United Nations peacekeeping mission as authorized by Security
Council Resolution 1706. Sudan must be convinced to allow this peacekeeping
force to deploy. If it refuses, Sudan must feel the consequences. Suspending
Sudan’s UN membership and levying sanctions are two things included
in the Senate’s bill that can help make a difference.
Third, it is essential that the international community deny impunity
to those who have been complicit in, or responsible for, acts of genocide,
war crimes, or crimes against humanity in Darfur. The U.S. and the international
community need to impose targeted sanctions, as well as financial and
travel restrictions, on groups and individuals that are accused of violating
international law and continue to threaten stability in Darfur and the
region.
Fourth, we need to get the President’s new Special Envoy engaged
immediately. Mr. Natsios must be empowered to negotiate and work with
the Sudanese, throughout the region, and with the international community
to make way for a UN peacekeeping force and to set the conditions for
a lasting peace.
While it isn’t perfect, the recently passed bipartisan Darfur
Peace and Accountability Act includes some valuable elements. It doesn’t
include important divestiture language, and probably could have included
a range of other things. But this legislation is only a first step,
and it demonstrates the United States’ determination to lead the
way on the long path ahead.
Whatever we do, we cannot allow this genocide to continue. The U.S.
and other nations have to put this at the top of their agendas and we
can’t afford to wait around any longer.
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