In their recent article published in The Conversation our Co-Director Professor Sharath Srinivasan and Professor Justin Willis, from the Department of History at Durham University, examine the complex conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the challenges in finding a peaceful resolution. Both sides are claiming local victories, with the army regaining control in Khartoum while the RSF continues its violent siege in El Fasher. Despite the army’s recent gains, neither side is positioned for a decisive victory, and the conflict has resulted in widespread civilian suffering.
The conflict has drawn in other armed groups, leading to a fragmented military landscape in Sudan. The alliances of these groups with either the army or the RSF are contingent or opportunistic, and there are credible allegations that external actors, such as the UAE, Egypt, and Russia are exacerbating the violence through arms and financing. International calls for peace have not yet yielded any significant action.
Currently, Sudan is confronted with either a prolonged lack of central authority or, more drastically, a potential fragmentation into two or more states, regardless of international recognition. But in spite of the devastation, there remains a spirit of resistance. Grassroots emergency response teams are mobilising to provide essential support to struggling communities. Women and youth remain committed to the ideals of the revolution that began in 2019, and are actively organizing, advocating, and discussing the country’s future, insisting on their involvement in shaping it.
Despite the grim circumstances, there is hope for a reimagined Sudan emerging from the chaos.
Read the full article here.