CRISIS COMMITTEE 2

Topic: Addressing the Conflict in Sudan

On April 15th, 2023, violent clashes erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan. This resulted in the displacement of more than 11.5 million people, including internally displaced people (IDPs), asylum seekers and refugees. Due to a myriad of issues, Sudan has progressed into a very unstable nation. Firstly, due to the drawing of arbitrary colonial borders, where many peoples with a history of conflict were grouped in the same borders. People who had never had to live together or work together suddenly had to create governments and integrate their different societies. Naturally, this did not immediately go well, which ushered in excessive bloodshed. Then the succession of South Sudan, which were mainly Christian or animist, from the northern part of the country, which was primarily made up of Arab Muslims occurred, as a result of the tensions and violence between different groups. This was a huge economic blow for Sudan, as it lost 75% of its oil. Poor economic conditions and war-induced famine, caused further unrest and the eventual removal of longstanding dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019. After this, there was a short attempt at democracy, it was quickly usurped by a military coup. Currently, the country is also facing climate change-induced issues, and mass migration out of Sudan due to former inhabitants seeking asylum elsewhere. Half of Sudan’s population, around 25 million people, seek humanitarian assistance and protection. Clearly, this issue needs immediate and rapid intervention.

The African Union (AU) is a continental organization established in 2001 to promote unity, economic development, and political stability among African nations. Given its role in conflict resolution and peacekeeping, the AU is highly relevant to discussions on the conflict in Sudan. The AU has been involved in mediating peace talks, pushing for ceasefires, and working with regional bodies like IGAD (Intergovernmental Authority on Development) to find diplomatic solutions. Additionally, the AU's Peace and Security Council (PSC) monitors the situation and advocates for humanitarian aid, dialogue, and international support to stabilize Sudan and prevent further regional destabilization.

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