Since the outbreak of war in Sudan in April 2023, global attention has been minimal as leaders are diverted by other geopolitical crises. The U.S. has weakened its influence, crippling humanitarian efforts, while foreign actors exacerbate the conflict. The potential partition of Sudan signals the urgent need for a concerted international response to the humanitarian crisis.
The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has largely gone unnoticed on the global stage, overshadowed by other geopolitical crises. Despite the ongoing mass atrocities and the burgeoning famine, world leaders remain preoccupied with domestic issues and other conflicts, leading to a muted response to the plight of Sudanese civilians. Unlike the significant mobilization seen during the Darfur genocide, there has been minimal public reaction, including to the Biden administration’s recent genocide designation.
The United States is complicating the situation further by diminishing its influence and actions on the global front. The recent cutbacks at USAID have severely limited humanitarian assistance to Sudan, exacerbating the dire circumstances faced by the population. Meanwhile, Russia is exploiting the chaos by seeking confirmation of its economic interests in Port Sudan, unmoved by the suffering in the region.
As conflict escalates, Sudan inches closer to an unofficial partition. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), allied with remnants of former dictator Omar al-Bashir’s regime and other factions oppose the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Although both sides have gained ground, neither can feasibly eliminate the other, indicating that a fractured state will not equate to peace.
Foreign involvement continues to shape the conflict with various nations supporting opposing factions. The costs of this intervention fall squarely on the Sudanese people, who face displacement, violence, and deprivation of essential services. As conditions worsen, there is an increasing risk of broader regional instability enabled by external actors and weakened principles of governance.
To prevent further disaster, a cessation of foreign support, a comprehensive ceasefire, and a clear path towards civilian governance are necessary. However, in the absence of decisive global leadership, achieving these ends remains a remote possibility. It is imperative for the international community to urgently address the collapsing situation in Sudan before the consequences extend beyond its borders.
The situation in Sudan highlights a critical humanitarian crisis exacerbated by global political distractions and foreign interference. As the country edges towards fragmentation, it is crucial for the international community to prioritize intervention strategies that promote peace and civilian governance. Without immediate action, the ramifications will extend well beyond Sudan, affecting regional stability and international norms.
Original Source: www.cfr.org
