Efforts to secure peace in Sudan are underway as the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) enters its third year. A peace initiative presented by Sudan’s Transitional Prime Minister to the Security Council earlier this week has been acknowledged by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who stressed the essential need for a lasting and inclusive peace.
Peace Initiative and UN Response
Secretary-General Guterres has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a lasting ceasefire that preserves Sudan’s unity and territorial integrity. He urged Sudanese actors to prioritize compromise and work toward a civilian-led transition. His Personal Envoy for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, is prepared to facilitate consultations between the parties to achieve a sustainable resolution, working alongside Member States and regional partners.
Security Setbacks and Peacekeeper Withdrawal
The pursuit of peace is occurring against a backdrop of escalating violence. The UN peacekeeping mission in the Abyei region – which borders Sudan and South Sudan – has withdrawn its logistics base in Kadugli, South Kordofan, following drone attacks on December 13th. These attacks resulted in the deaths of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injuries to nine others. Eight of the wounded are currently receiving medical care in Kenya.
UNISFA continues operations from other locations, including Tishwin and Abu Qussa.
Mounting Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict continues to exacerbate a dire humanitarian situation. A recent UN assessment indicates that female-headed households are particularly vulnerable, facing reduced access to essential resources like cash, education, and water, as well as increased risks of displacement. Intensified fighting in Kordofan and Darfur has led to mass displacement and disrupted aid delivery, worsening conditions for civilians.
The war, now in its third year, has claimed thousands of lives, displaced millions, and created famine conditions in several areas of Sudan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy?
The Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, is available to advance consultations with both parties involved in the conflict to help secure an inclusive and sustainable resolution.
Where did the recent attacks on peacekeepers occur?
Drone attacks that led to the withdrawal of UN peacekeepers from Kadugli occurred on December 13th, resulting in the deaths of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injuries to nine others.
Which groups are currently fighting in Sudan?
The war is between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
As the conflict continues, will the peace initiative gain traction, or will the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis further complicate efforts to achieve a lasting resolution?
