People flee their neighbourhoods amid fighting between the army and paramilitaries in Khartoum on April 19, 2023,

following the
collapse of a twenty-four hour truce. Getty Images

ETHNIC
VIOLENCE IN
SUDAN:
SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT
ELEANOR LUIJKX
DECEMBER 2023

A case study exploring the ethnic violence in Sudan, focusing on the

conflict between the SAF and RSF, analysing its impact on local
communities and its implications for the developmental trajectory of
the region.
ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

CONTENTS

OVERVIEW 1

ACTORS 2

HISTORY 3

POLITICAL ISSUES 5

LINKS TO KEY CONCEPTS 10

LEVELS OF ANALYSIS 12

SOURCES 13

SIMILAR CASES 14
 ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

Sudanese army soldiers loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan man a position in the Red Sea city of Port Sudan, on April 20, 2023. Getty Images

OVERVIEW
Sudan has a history in ethnic and political friction, including the Darfur
conflict that began in 2003, leading to many civilian casualties,
displacement, and international condemnation. While the situation in
Darfur has drawn global attention, similar conflicts have risen in other
Sudanese regions such as the clash between the Sudan Armed Forces
(SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The conflict between the SAF and RSF has far-reaching consequences
not only for Sudan, but for the entire region, as it threatens to destabilise
an already fragile political landscape.
The violence stems from ethnic and political tensions, with the SAF and
RSF often accused of perpetrating acts of violence against ethnic
minority communities, particularly in the Darfur, South Kordofan, and
Blue Nile regions. Indigenous communities and ethnic minorities have
suffered heavily from the violence, facing displacement from their
homes, sexual violence and a great number of human rights abuses.
These fragile communities often find themselves caught in the crossfire
of the conflict.

The Sudanese Armed Forces are the official military of Sudan, while the
Rapid Support Forces were originally established as a paramilitary force.
The RSF has been accused of carrying out operations that result in
civilian harm and destruction in various regions. Tensions have risen as
both forces operate in close areas to each other. The violence has
exacerbated the humanitarian situation in Sudan, with a significant
number of internally displaced persons and refugees in neighbouring
countries. Access to humanitarian aid is often hindered by the ongoing
violence, making it challenging to provide assistance to those in need.
The ethnic violence in Sudan poses a great threat to regional stability as
well, as neighbouring countries can be affected by the large number of
incoming refugees and the potential for cross-border violence.

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ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT
ACTORS
STATE ACTORS
SUDANESE ARMED
FORCES (SAF)
As the military force of the
state, the SAF plays a central
role in the conflict. Its
involvement stems from
maintaining state authority
and addressing internal
security challenges.
NON-STATE ACTORS
REBEL GROUPS
Various rebel groups, mainly in
regions like Darfur and South
Kordofan, are non-state actors
involved in the conflict. They
often oppose the central
government, seeking
autonomy or addressing issues
related to political and
economic marginalisation.
EXTERNAL ACTORS
INTERNATIONAL
COMMUNITY
Neighbouring countries and
international organisations,
play a role in influencing the
conflict dynamics. They may
engage in diplomatic efforts,
provide humanitarian aid, or
exert pressure for peace
negotiations.
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RAPID SUPPORT
FORCES (RSF)
The RSF are paramilitary forces
formerly operated by the
government of Sudan. It grew
out of, and is primarily
composed of, the Janjaweed
militias which fought on behalf
of the Sudanese government
during the war in Darfur.
CIVILIAN
POPULATION
Civilians, especially in conflict
zones, face displacement,
violence, and humanitarian
crises. Their role involves
enduring the consequences of
the conflict, impacting their
daily lives, well-being, and
livelihoods.
ARMED OPPOSITION
GROUPS
Some armed groups with ties
to external actors may be
involved in the conflict.
Motivations can range from
seeking support for their cause
to pursuing regional influence.
ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

HISTORY
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)
conflict is a complex and multi-dimensional conflict that has affected
Sudan for several decades. The conflict’s origins and evolutions come
from various historical, political, and social factors that have contributed
to this ongoing crisis.

COLONIAL LEGACY
Sudan's troubled history can be traced back to its colonial past. British
and Egyptian rule, followed by the British administration of the Anglo-
Egyptian Sudan, created deep-seated ethnic and regional divisions.

FIRST SUDANESE CIVIL WAR

AUGUST 18, 1955
The First Sudanese Civil War begins in Southern Sudan, primarily over
issues of regional autonomy and economic disparities. This conflict laid
the foundation for future conflicts in Sudan.

MARCH 27, 1972

The Addis Ababa Agreement is signed, ending the First Sudanese Civil
War. The agreement grants autonomy to the southern region.

INTER-WAR PERIOD
1983: Sudanese President Gaafar Nimeiry unilaterally abrogates the
Addis Ababa Agreement, leading to discontent in the south.

SECOND SUDANESE CIVIL WAR

1983
The Second Sudanese Civil War begins when the Sudanese
government introduces Sharia law and revokes the autonomy of the
south.

1993
The Sudanese government and the Sudan People's Liberation Army
(SPLA) agree to a ceasefire, but it quickly breaks down.

2005
The Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) is signed, ending the
Second Sudanese Civil War. The agreement grants Southern Sudan
autonomy and provides for a referendum on independence.

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ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

POST-SOUTH SUDANESE INDEPENDENCE

JULY 9, 2011
South Sudan declares independence, becoming a separate nation.

2011-2019
Sudan faces economic challenges, internal conflicts in regions like
Darfur, and political discontent leading to protests.

EMERGENCE OF THE RSF

2013
The RSF is established as a paramilitary force to support the Sudanese
government. General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemeti,
becomes a prominent figure within the RSF. Composed primarily of
Arab militias, the RSF was accused of committing atrocities against
non-Arab communities, notably in the Darfur region.

2019
The RSF plays a controversial role in responding to protests, including
the violent dispersal of a sit-in protest in June 2019. This brutal
campaign resulted in mass displacement and international
condemnation.

SUDANESE REVOLUTION
DECEMBER 2018
Protests erupt across Sudan, initially sparked by economic hardships.
The demands quickly escalate to calling for the resignation of
President Omar al-Bashir.

APRIL 11, 2019

President Omar al-Bashir is ousted from power by the military
following months of protests.

AUGUST 17, 2019

A power-sharing agreement is reached between the military council
and civilian groups, leading to the establishment of a transitional
government.

2020 AND BEYOND

The SAF-RSF conflict escalated as power struggles persisted. Violent
clashes between the two factions, as well as human rights abuses,
became increasingly common. The SAF-RSF conflict continues to
influence Sudan's political landscape, posing significant obstacles to
the country's journey towards lasting peace and prosperity.

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ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

POLITICAL ISSUES
The conflict and political dynamics in Sudan hold substantial importance
on the global stage due to several interconnected factors that
reverberate beyond the nation's borders. The implications extend into
regional stability, humanitarian concerns, and particularly development.

HUMANITARIAN
DEVELOPMENT
The protracted conflicts in Sudan,
such as the Darfur crisis and the
Second Sudanese Civil War, have
led to severe humanitarian crises.
Mass displacements, violence,
and the disruption of basic
services have hindered the
development of affected
communities.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
Sudan's economic stability is
intricately linked to global
markets, especially due to its
status as an oil-producing nation.
The resolution of conflicts and the
establishment of a stable political
and security environment are
prerequisites for sustained
economic development.

REGIONAL
STABILITY
Sudan's geopolitical position in
Africa and its proximity to the
volatile regions of the Sahel and
the Horn of Africa make it a
pivotal player in regional stability.
The outcome of Sudan's internal
conflicts and political transitions
directly influences neighbouring
countries and regional security.
REFUGEE
CRISIS
The conflicts in Sudan have led to
significant refugee flows,
impacting neighbouring
countries and, by extension,
global efforts to manage
migration and displacement, with
implications for international
cooperation on human rights,
and the alleviation of suffering.

DEMOCRATIC
GOVERNANCE
Sudan's transition to a more
democratic form of governance
serves as a case study with
implications for other nations
undergoing political transitions.
The result of Sudan's experiment
with power-sharing agreements
between military and civilian
factions could shape perceptions
on such models in post-conflict
societies.
INTERNATIONAL
RELATIONS
The political shifts and power
struggles within Sudan have
repercussions on diplomatic
relations, not only within Africa
but also with nations globally.
Sudan's alliances and
engagements in international
organisations influence the
balance of power and decision-
making processes on global
issues.

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ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

TO WHAT EXTENT HAVE INTERNATIONAL

INTERVENTIONS INFLUENCED THE TRAJECTORY OF
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN POST-CONFLICT SUDAN?
CONSIDERING FACTORS SUCH AS AID EFFECTIVENESS, POLICY
COHERENCE, AND DONOR COORDINATION

International interventions in post-conflict Sudan have played a significant role

in shaping the trajectory of economic development, albeit with a mix of
successes and challenges. Aid effectiveness has varied, with some initiatives
contributing positively to economic recovery, while others have faced
obstacles.

POSITIVE IMPACTS CHALLENGES & LIMITATIONS

Infrastructure Development
Some international interventions have
focused on critical infrastructure
projects, contributing to the
reconstruction of key sectors such as
transportation, energy, and
communication.
Humanitarian Assistance
Aid has addressed immediate needs,
providing essential services, food, and
healthcare to vulnerable populations,
thus contributing to social stability.
Capacity Building
Efforts to enhance institutional
capacity and governance structures
have aimed at creating an
environment conducive to
sustainable economic development.
DONOR COORDINATION
Coordination Issues
The coordination of international aid
efforts has often faced challenges,
leading to fragmented initiatives that
may not align with Sudan's overall
development goals.
Policy Coherence
Some international assistance may
come with conditionalities that may
not align with Sudan's domestic
policies, creating tensions and
impeding the implementation of
coherent development strategies.
Security & Access Constraints
Ongoing security concerns in certain
regions of Sudan can limit the
effectiveness of aid delivery and
hinder the implementation of
development projects.

Donor Competition
The presence of multiple donors with
distinct agendas may lead to
competition rather than coordination,
potentially undermining the overall
impact of international interventions.
Long-Term Commitment
The sustainability of international
support is crucial for achieving lasting
development outcomes, and
fluctuations in donor commitment
levels can pose challenges.
Sudanese refugees in Borota, Chad, May 10, 2023. (Yagazie
Emezi/The New York Times)

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ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT
TO WHAT EXTENT DOES THE REFUGEE CRISIS
STEMMING FROM SUDAN’S CONFLICTS INFLUENCE
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT DYNAMICS?
CONSIDERING THE ECONOMIC, SOCIAL, AND POLITICAL CONSEQUENCES
ON HOST COUNTRIES AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
ECONOMIC IMPACT
Host countries accommodating large
numbers of refugees often experience
economic strain. The influx of
displaced populations places
demands on local resources, such as
healthcare, education, and
employment opportunities.
Overburdened public services may
struggle to meet the needs of both
local and refugee populations. The
strain on resources can lead to
increased competition for jobs and
services, potentially fueling social
tensions.
POLITICAL IMPLICATIONS
The refugee crisis can have political
ramifications both within host
countries and internationally.
Domestically, political instability may
arise as a result of increased
competition for resources and
potential conflicts between host
communities and refugees. On the
international stage, the refugee crisis
may strain diplomatic relations
between Sudan and neighbouring
countries, impacting regional stability
and cooperation.
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SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES
Social integration of refugees into
host communities poses challenges.
Differences in culture, language, and
socio-economic backgrounds can
create friction. Host communities may
face challenges in accepting and
assimilating refugees, leading to
social tensions. Additionally, refugees
themselves may encounter difficulties
in adapting to a new environment,
exacerbating issues of poverty and
social inequality.
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
Addressing the refugee crisis requires
robust international cooperation.
Collaborative efforts among host
countries, international organisations,
and donor nations are essential.
Effective coordination can ensure the
equitable distribution of humanitarian
aid, support infrastructure
development in host regions, and
facilitate long-term solutions for
displaced populations. International
cooperation is vital for fostering
stability in the region and mitigating
the impact of the refugee crisis on
overall development.
ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

TO WHAT EXTENT DOES THE ONGOING CONFLICT IN

SUDAN HINDER THE ACHIEVEMENT OF SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT GOALS?
PARTICULARLY IN TERMS OF POVERTY ALLEVIATION, ACCESS TO
EDUCATION, AND HEALTHCARE DELIVERY

POVERTY ALLEVIATION
The persistent conflict in Sudan has
contributed to widespread poverty by
disrupting economic activities,
displacing populations, and
undermining livelihoods. Ongoing
violence and insecurity limit access to
employment opportunities, disrupt
agricultural activities, and hinder the
development of sustainable income-
generating projects. The result is
increased poverty levels, especially
among vulnerable communities
directly affected by the conflict.
HEALTHCARE DELIVERY
Ongoing conflict poses substantial
challenges to healthcare delivery in
Sudan. Displacement and insecurity
disrupt the functioning of health
facilities, limiting access to essential
services. The movement of
populations in search of safety often
results in a breakdown of healthcare
infrastructure, contributing to the
spread of diseases and creating
obstacles for healthcare professionals
in delivering timely and adequate
medical assistance. The conflict has
also led to a weakened healthcare
system, hindering responses to public
health crises.
A view of a damaged vehicle after clashes between the SAF and
RSF in Khartoum, Sudan, on April 18, 2023. Omer Erdem/Anadolou
Agency via Getty Images
ACCESS TO EDUCATION
The conflict has had a severe impact
on access to education in Sudan.
Displacement, destruction of
infrastructure, and insecurity have
disrupted the normal functioning of
schools, making it challenging for
students to pursue education.
Additionally, the displacement of
populations often results in a lack of
educational resources and trained
personnel, further hindering
educational development. The long-
term consequences include a higher
incidence of illiteracy and limited skill
development.
OVERALL IMPACT ON SDGS
he cumulative effect of these
challenges significantly hampers
Sudan's progress toward achieving
sustainable development goals. The
United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs), including
those related to poverty reduction
(SDG 1), quality education (SDG 4), and
good health and well-being (SDG 3),
are deeply affected by the protracted
conflict. Sustainable development
relies on a stable and secure
environment, which the conflict in
Sudan undermines, impeding
progress toward these crucial goals.

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ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

TO WHAT EXTENT HAS CLIMATE CHANGE EXACERBATED

EXISTING CHALLENGES IN SUDAN, AND HOW DOES THIS
IMPACT THE NATION’S DEVELOPMENT AGENDA?
PARTICULARLY IN RELATION TO WATER SCARCITY, AGRICULTURAL
PRODUCTIVITY, AND DISPLACEMENT

WATER SCARCITY AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY

Climate change has intensified water
scarcity in Sudan through altered
precipitation patterns and increased
temperatures. Erratic rainfall,
prolonged droughts, and changes in
hydrological cycles have led to
decreased water availability, affecting
both domestic use and agricultural
irrigation. Water scarcity exacerbates
existing challenges, particularly in arid
and semi-arid regions, impacting food
security and livelihoods.
Sudan heavily relies on agriculture,
and climate change has taken a toll
on agricultural productivity.
Unpredictable weather patterns,
including irregular rainfall and
increased temperatures, contribute to
soil degradation and reduced crop
yields. Changes in precipitation
patterns can lead to both flooding
and drought, negatively affecting
crop growth cycles and posing
challenges to sustainable agriculture
practices.

IMPACT ON SUDAN’S DEVELOPMENT

Food Security
Reduced agricultural productivity
threatens food security, undermining
efforts to alleviate poverty and hunger
(SDG 1 and 2).
Water and Sanitation
Villagers use pickaxes and shovels to deepen Mabil pond. Some
316 members of the Ruar Leek community are working to expand
Increased water scarcity affects
the pond. Will Baxter/CRS access to clean water and sanitation,
hindering progress toward SDG 6
(Clean Water and Sanitation).
DISPLACEMENT AND MIGRATION
The impacts of climate change, Economic Stability
coupled with existing vulnerabilities, Dependence on agriculture makes
contribute to increased displacement Sudan's economy vulnerable to
and migration in Sudan. Water climate change impacts, affecting
scarcity and agricultural challenges economic stability and the pursuit of
force communities to move in search sustainable economic growth (SDG 8).
of better living conditions and Climate Action
economic opportunities. This Addressing climate change becomes
displacement not only disrupts social integral to Sudan's development
structures but also places additional agenda, aligning with SDG 13 (Climate
burdens on areas receiving an influx Action). Adaptation and resilience-
of migrants, straining resources and building measures are essential to
services. mitigate the adverse effects.

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 ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

LINKS TO KEY CONCEPTS

The conflict in Sudan is closely linked to the
concept of human rights, as evidenced by
HUMAN RIGHTS widespread violations such as extrajudicial
killings, displacement, and restrictions on
freedom. These violations directly contradict the
principles of inalienable rights and dignity
“BASIC CLAIMS AND
ENTITLEMENTS THAT, outlined in international frameworks like the
MANY ARGUE, ONE Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The
SHOULD BE ABLE TO
EXERCISE SIMPLY BY debate on cultural relativism is challenged by the
VIRTUE OF BEING A universal relevance of human rights principles,
HUMAN BEING” emphasising the need for accountability and
global cooperation to address the violations in
Sudan.

The conflict in Sudan is closely tied to

inequality, evident in unequal access to
resources such as food and healthcare. This INEQUALITY
disparity deepens social and economic gaps,
hindering development and perpetuating
power imbalances. Inequality is both internal,
“A STATE OF AFFAIRS
affecting different groups within Sudanese WHERE EQUALITY
society, and external, influenced by global BETWEEN PEOPLE OR
GROUPS OF PEOPLE IS
power dynamics. The conflict compromises NOT REALISED AND
justice and liberty as marginalised populations THE CONSEQUENT
face discrimination and human rights abuses. POTENTIAL
COMPROMISES OF
Addressing the root causes of the conflict JUSTICE AND LIBERTY”
requires tackling these underlying inequalities.

The conflict in Sudan is intricately linked to the

pervasive concept of violence, extending beyond
VIOLENCE physical acts to encompass structural
inequalities. Physical violence is evident in armed
conflicts, military actions, and violence against
civilians, causing loss of life, displacement, and
“PHYSICAL OR
PSYCHOLOGICAL destruction. Simultaneously, structural violence
FORCE AFFLICTED manifests through discriminatory practices and
UPON ANOTHER
BEING, IT COULD BE unequal power dynamics, denying certain groups
SEEN AS ANYTHING access to crucial resources like healthcare and
SOMEONE DOES THAT education. This multifaceted violence impedes
PREVENTS OTHERS
FROM REACHING progress, perpetuates systemic inequalities, and
THEIR FULL obstructs marginalised groups from realising
POTENTIAL”
their full potential in Sudan, highlighting the
urgent need for addressing both direct acts of
aggression and underlying structural injustices.

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 ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

LINKS TO KEY CONCEPTS

Sustainability, which emphasises meeting
present needs without jeopardising the future,
SUSTAINABILITY involves the intersection of environmental,
sociopolitical, and economic considerations. In
the context of Sudan, the conflict disrupts the
sociopolitical and economic dimensions,
“THE IDEA THAT
DEVELOPMENT SHOULD hindering the establishment of political
MEET THE NEEDS OF THE institutions and economic actors that can
PRESENT WITHOUT
COMPROMISING THE adopt a longer-term and inclusive well-being
ABILITY OF FUTURE perspective. The lack of stability and inclusive
GENERATIONS TO MEET decision-making processes perpetuates a
THEIR NEEDS”
cycle of violence, undermining the
sustainability of development efforts in Sudan
and posing challenges for the well-being of
current and future generations.

The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid

Support Forces (RSF) conflict aligns with the
concept of conflict, involving actual or CONFLICT
perceived opposition over positions, interests,
or values. This opposition, occurring both non-
violently and violently in the crisis, underscores “THE DYNAMIC
PROCESS OF ACTUAL
the dynamics and complexities within the OR PERCEIVED
SAF-RSF conflict, necessitating conflict OPPOSITION BETWEEN
INDIVIDUALS OR
resolution efforts to address the underlying GROUPS”
tensions and differences.

The conflict significantly impedes

development by disrupting essential services,
DEVELOPMENT causing economic strain and poverty,
contributing to institutional breakdown,
exacerbating inequality and social disruption,
and shaping long-term development
“A SUSTAINED INCREASE
IN THE STANDARD OF trajectories. The upheaval challenges the
LIVING AND WELL-BEING foundational elements of development,
OF A LEVEL OF SOCIAL hindering the sustained increase in the
ORGANIZATION”
standard of living and well-being. As
contemporary development debates
emphasise the challenges faced by developing
countries and advocate a shift from traditional
Westernisation, conflicts like the SAF-RSF
underscore the urgent need to address the
unique complexities posed by ongoing
violence to promote well-being and reduce
inequalities in affected societies.

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 ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

LEVELS OF ANALYSIS
Sudanese protesters walk past burning tires as they rally to protest against the October 2021
military coup, in the capital Khartoum, on January 9, 2022. AFP via Getty Images

COMMUNITY
At the community level, the conflict in Sudan has a profound impact on local
communities, both geographically and emotionally. Geographically based
communities, especially in conflict zones, face disruptions to their social fabric,
displacement, and the breakdown of mutual support systems

LOCAL
Locally, the conflict in Sudan directly shapes areas where social organisation
occurs, with an impact ranging from disruptions in education and healthcare
to changes in economic activities. Local practices, once defined by inhabitants,
transform in the face of conflict, impacting the daily lives and cultural
continuity of the people.

NATIONAL
At the national level, the conflict influences events and trends within the
geographical boundaries of Sudan. Economic crises, political reforms, and
changes in governance are among the national-level impacts. The conflict
becomes intertwined with national identity, political stability, and legal
frameworks.

REGIONAL
The regional implications of the conflict extend beyond the national borders of
Sudan, impacting the broader geographic region of North Africa and the
Middle East. Regional organisations, such as the African Union and the Arab
League, may be involved in mediation efforts or addressing the spillover effects
of the conflict.

INTERNATIONAL
International organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and
multinational corporations (MNCs) may be engaged in providing humanitarian
aid and addressing human rights concerns. The impact resonates across
several countries, involving diplomatic efforts, peacekeeping missions, and
global attention to the humanitarian crisis.

GLOBAL
At the global level, the conflict in Sudan is part of broader events and trends
with far-reaching and long-term impacts. Issues such as forced migration,
human rights violations, and regional instability contribute to global
challenges. The conflict intersects with global phenomena like terrorism and
epidemics, emphasizing its interconnectedness with broader global dynamics
that transcend national identities and interests.

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ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

SOURCES *RECOMMENDED FURTHER READING

“The Sudan crisis: A power struggle by design.”

* Source: Al Jazeera
Date: 18 May 2023
“What will the military clash in Sudan bring about? – Intervention by the
* international community is required.”
Source: SPF
Date: 24 August 2023
Clashes between SAF and RSF - Flash Update No. 13
Source: OCHA
Date: 21 May 2023
Sudan: Clashes between SAF and RSF - Flash Update No. 14
Source: OCHA
Date: 28 May 2023
Sudan: Clashes between SAF and RSF - Flash Update No. 15
Source: OCHA
Date: 6 June 2023
Sudan: The SAF Faces Setbacks as Armed Groups Overtake Territory
Across the Country
Source: ACLED
Date: 21 July 2023
Power Struggle in Sudan
* Source: CFR
Date: 11 July 2023
Stopping the War in Sudan
Source: SWP Berlin
Date: 22 May 2023
Failed ceasefires, deaths and millions displaced: No end in sight to Sudan
* conflict
Source: Alarabiya News
Date: 16 August 2023
The complexities of standing behind the SAF in the Sudan war and the
risks of a RSF victory
Source: Dabanga Sudan
Date: 3 June 2023
What Is Driving Violent Unrest in Sudan?
* Source: Center for Strategic and International Studies
Date: 18 April 2023
Sudan: War crimes rampant as civilians killed in both deliberate and
* indiscriminate attacks – new report - Amnesty International
Source: Amnesty International
Date: 3 August 2023

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ETHNIC VIOLENCE IN SUDAN: SAF AND RSF FORCES CONFLICT

SIMILAR CASES
While related to the broader Sudanese conflict,
DARFUR the Darfur region has experienced a specific
CONFLICT conflict with ethnic and tribal dimensions. The
Darfur conflict has involved various rebel groups,
government forces, and paramilitary forces,
LINK leading to widespread displacement and
humanitarian challenges.

The civil war in South Sudan, which erupted after

SOUTH SUDAN the country gained independence, involves power
CIVIL WAR struggles between different political factions and
ethnic groups. Like Sudan, it has faced challenges
related to governance, ethnic tensions, and
LINK resource distribution.

The Syrian conflict is a complex and multifaceted

SYRIAN war involving government forces, rebel groups,
CIVIL WAR and external actors. It has led to a massive
humanitarian crisis, displacement, and regional
implications, reflecting the challenges of
LINK governance, identity, and external intervention.

The ongoing civil war in Yemen involves a complex

YEMENI array of actors, including government forces,
CIVIL WAR Houthi rebels, and international coalitions. The
conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian
crisis, with widespread displacement and
LINK challenges to basic services and well-being.

The conflict in the Central African Republic has

CENTRAL AFRICAN roots in political instability, religious tensions, and
REPUBLIC CONFLICT ethnic divisions. Armed groups, including
government forces and rebel factions, have been
involved, leading to displacement and human
LINK rights abuses.

The Rohingya crisis involves the persecution of the

ROHINGYA Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar. Ethnic and
CRISIS religious tensions have escalated, resulting in
mass displacement and human rights violations,
showcasing the challenges of identity,
LINK governance, and human rights in conflict.

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