The conflict in Sudan, marked by violence between the military and the RSF, is exacerbated by the illicit gold trade. This trade finances weapons that have led to numerous casualties since civil war erupted in April 2023. Despite evidence of war crimes, the UAE continues to support the RSF, with gold being central to its power dynamics, according to The New York Times correspondent Declan Walsh.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has intensified its impact on the global landscape, prompting renewed calls for peace. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has urged an immediate cessation of hostilities between the national army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The crisis, which has escalated since April 2023, is significantly influenced by the unlawful gold trade, with both factions smuggling vast gold reserves out of the country to finance warfare, including drones and firearms.
Declan Walsh, the chief Africa correspondent for The New York Times, has highlighted that this illicit economy is not merely for sustenance but directly facilitates the procurement of weapons that have resulted in substantial civilian casualties. The immense wealth derived from Sudan’s gold resources is reportedly flowing into the United Arab Emirates. Despite the growing evidence of the RSF’s involvement in war crimes, the UAE continues to provide support to the paramilitary group.
Walsh emphasizes the critical role of gold in bolstering the RSF’s power, stating, “Gold is really at the heart of the RSF’s ascent to power.” This assertion underscores the economic underpinnings of the conflict, where mineral wealth becomes a key player in the ongoing humanitarian disaster and violence against civilians. Observably, the smuggling operations not only exacerbate the internal strife in Sudan but also engage international stakeholders, further complicating the geopolitical ramifications of the war.
The current turmoil in Sudan highlights significant global concerns regarding armed conflicts fueled by economic interests, particularly in resource-rich nations. Since the outbreak of civil war in Sudan, a notable nexus has emerged between armed groups financed by valuable commodities, such as gold, and international actors capitalizing on these struggles. The RSF, a paramilitary force, has gained power through the funding acquired from the gold industry, prompting investigations and calls for accountability from international bodies.
In summary, the situation in Sudan remains dire as the conflict persists underpinned by the gold trade. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres calls for an immediate end to the fighting, while correspondents like Declan Walsh provide crucial insights into the dynamics of resource exploitation fueling the violence. The ongoing support for the RSF by the UAE amidst documented war crimes emphasizes the need for thorough international oversight and intervention to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and combat illicit trade.
Original Source: www.democracynow.org
