Sudan’s Conflict Escalates as Civilians Bear the Brunt
The situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, with civilians caught in the middle of an escalating conflict. According to Dr. Nisrin Elamin, a Sudanese anthropologist and African studies researcher, the conflict is often mischaracterized as a proxy war between armies backed by outside powers. While foreign actors, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt, are involved, Dr. Elamin emphasizes that the Sudanese military elites are responsible for starting the war.
The conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands of people displaced and struggling to access basic necessities like food, water, and healthcare. The city of El-Fasher in North Darfur has been under siege for 500 days, with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) cutting off supply lines and committing atrocities against civilians. The Sudanese army has also been accused of war crimes, including using hunger as a weapon of war.
Despite the gravity of the situation, there has been a virtual media blackout, with little international attention or aid. Dr. Elamin attributes this to a lack of pressure on foreign actors, particularly the UAE, which has been supporting the RSF in exchange for Sudanese resources. She calls for an international trade embargo and arms embargo on the UAE to stop fueling the war.
Local support groups, such as the Emergency Response Rooms, have been working to help civilians survive, but more needs to be done. Dr. Elamin emphasizes the need for international pressure on both parties to agree to a ceasefire and open up corridors for humanitarian aid. She also suggests that centering civilians in negotiations, rather than civilian elites, could lead to a more effective resolution.
The international community has been criticized for its response to the crisis, with barely any funding for the UN’s aid appeal. Canadian companies have also been implicated in the war, with some providing PR services to the RSF and others supplying armored vehicles. Dr. Elamin calls on countries like Canada and the United States to use their influence to pressure the UAE to stop supporting the RSF.
As the situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, it is essential that the international community takes action to support civilians and pressure foreign actors to stop fueling the war. With the RSF committing genocidal war crimes and the army accused of war crimes, it is crucial that a ceasefire is agreed upon and humanitarian aid is allowed to reach those in need.
