Meeting summary for Sudan Current Crisis and the Way Out = Prof Munzol (05/11/2024)

Quick recap

Participants discussed various issues related to the work, with a focus on the ongoing humanitarian and security crisis in Sudan. They explored the deep social division in Sudanese society resulting from a long-term conflict, the deterioration of humanitarian conditions, and the possibilities of further escalation in the civil war. The conversation also emphasized the importance of humanitarian work free from political interference, the role of civil society in effecting change, and the need for a new approach to addressing the ongoing war and its high costs.

Next steps

• Hafiz will provide a detailed description of the reality of war in Sudan and its effects on social levels, division, and judicial discourse.
• Hafiz will review the meeting’s outcomes and provide an additional summary.
• Munzol will present his personal opinion on the necessary efforts to reach a solution to the violations and the serious humanitarian situation resulting from the war.
• Hafiz will discuss the possibility of expanding the umbrella of civil society organizations to include a wider range of Sudanese society, ensuring that they all work towards the common goal of ending the war.
• Munzol will coordinate with the African Union and other international organizations to rally support for the Sudan War Cessation Initiative.
• Zaher will work on building a civil front that can unite all Sudanese people, including those from different political backgrounds, to pressure warring parties to end the conflict.

Summary

Discussion on work and humanitarian issues:

Mo and Hafiz discussed issues and potential strategies related to work, mentioning “Georgia County Island” and a potential list. They referred to different locations such as Sudan, Syria, and Kenya, as well as individuals and organizations. However, the conversation was fragmented, making it difficult to provide a detailed summary. Mo emphasized the need to move forward in updating, while Hafiz spoke about reports of attacks and supply lines. They also touched on topics like hunger, humanitarian aid, and the meaning of life.

Sudan Crisis and Commitment Challenges:

Hafiz and Munzol discussed the ongoing humanitarian and security crisis in Sudan. Hafiz highlighted the lack of commitment from all parties involved, the economic consequences, and the challenges facing relief and humanitarian work. Munzol echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the long-term problems in Sudan and the inevitability of conflict. Both sides expressed hope for a solution despite current challenges.

Sudanese Social Division and Conflict Concerns

Munzol discussed the deep social division in Sudanese society resulting from a long-term conflict intensified after events in 2019. He identified two main divisions: one supporting democratic transition and the other opposing it. Munzol expressed concern about the ongoing conflict, its negative impact on social dynamics, and the possibility of further escalation in a civil war. He criticized the media’s tolerance of inflammatory rhetoric and pointed out the deterioration of humanitarian conditions as indicated by various UN reports.

Conflict in Sudan and Negotiations

Munzol expressed grave concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Sudan, warning that it could become the world’s largest conflict, surpassing even Gaza. He criticized the lack of clear mechanisms and commitments from states during the Paris conference for failing to provide necessary funds, emphasizing the need for further negotiations to resolve the conflict in Darfur. Munzol also noted that Sudan’s membership in the African Union has been frozen due to internal conflicts, hindering efforts to resolve the crisis. He doubted the ability of the United States to play a decisive role due to its internal conflicts and predicted that the war would continue for 10 years if they persist. He then highlighted that negotiations that began in May 2020 could lead to an agreement and the end of the conflict, highlighting the devastating effects of the war on Sudan’s economy, security, and social fabric.

War Effects and Popular Progress in Sudan

Hafiz led a comprehensive discussion on the long-term effects of war, using Sudan as a case study. He detailed the negative economic, social, and political impacts of war, emphasizing the need for a peaceful solution. The conversation also addressed the complexities of aid delivery and the role of the World Food Program, as well as the challenges facing the Sudanese people. Finally, the discussion focused on the potential for grassroots progress through youth efforts and the importance of unity and good governance.

Sudan Crisis and Civil Society Role:

Bakhtiar discussed the ongoing crisis in Sudan, emphasizing the need for a new political system and the role of civil society in effecting change. He criticized the Paris conference for its failure to reach solutions to the Sudanese crisis and highlighted the consequences of colonization on the country. Then, Hafiz and Marwa discussed the need for an alternative system and the role of the international community in ending the conflict. Alaa acknowledged the complexity of the issue and mentioned an upcoming meeting.

Humanitarian Work and Conflict Resolution:

Alaa emphasized the importance of humanitarian work free from political interference and the need for safe passages to address conflicts. Hafiz discussed the international community’s impact on the situation in Darfur and Sudan, emphasizing the need for unique solutions. Ahmed criticized the use of violence and war as solutions, calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Sudan. Munzol proposed using Chapter VII of the UN Charter to resolve the conflict in Yemen, highlighting the need for a broad civil front. Hafiz suggested that the African Union and the African Peace and Security Council address Chapter 7 and perhaps impose a ceasefire. He emphasized the need for comprehensive national dialogue to establish a new social contract and constitutional framework that respects Sudan’s cultural diversity.

Sudan: Progress, Challenges, and Civil Society:

Zoom and other participants discussed the possibility of progress and the role of professionals in Sudan. They emphasized the need to trust individual capabilities to drive initiatives forward and confront challenges related to civil forces and political parties. The group also discussed the ongoing war and its high costs, focusing on the need for a new approach and unity in Sudanese society. Finally, they explored the potential of civil society in promoting peace and contributing to positive change, highlighting the importance of understanding and cooperation among cultures.