Kirsten Hagon, Oxfam's spokesperson in New York said:

On Darfur :

“International attention has turned away from Darfur at a time when it is desperately needed. Recent fighting has killed hundreds of people, forced thousands from their homes and hindered access to some of the worst affected areas for months. In areas such as Eastern Jebel Marra, humanitarian workers do not have any access at all.

"The envoys must urgently push all sides to agree and maintain a cessation of hostilities and allow unimpeded safe humanitarian access to people in need. They must also work with all parties to boost the ailing peace talks. The diplomatic response to Darfur has for too long been characterized by numerous uncoordinated peace initiatives that have failed to improve people’s lives. At this week’s summit the UN Security Council and Special Envoys must commit to bring these initiatives together and help forge a peace process that is truly inclusive, representative and lasting.”

On Southern Sudan and the referendum:

“What happens in southern Sudan over the next nine months will shape the future of Africa’s largest country and the continent itself. International diplomacy is vital to help smooth the way and ensure large-scale conflict does not erupt. 700 people have been killed and 90,000 have fled their villages already this year alone. Serious military clashes between government troops and opposition forces after the elections are a worrying indication of what could come, and may escalate as tensions rise in the lead up to the referendum. Some of the most contentious issues between northern and southern Sudan – such as the demarcation of the border and sharing of oil revenues – have still not been agreed, and planning for the referendum is already behind schedule. These delays are adding to an already extremely volatile situation. Sudan needs urgent international support from the UN Security Council to ensure the referendum goes peacefully.

“Southern Sudan could soon become the world’s newest country – but one that after decades of war and neglect is desperately poor, landlocked and reliant on aid for even the most basic services. Its local government, police and health services have had to be built almost from scratch. Support for the citizens of the south will be needed long after the referendum. The UN Security Council, with advice from the envoys must agree a long term strategy to keep civilians safe and help southern Sudan recover from its tragic recent history.”