After nearly eleven months of suspension, Sudan is set to reintegrate with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), marking a significant change for the region's political dynamics. The suspension originally occurred back in January due to Sudan's concerns over sovereignty following IGAD's decision to invite Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leader, Hamdan Dagalo, to a summit held in Uganda. Sudan's absence from IGAD has been felt across the region as the country grapples with the aftermath of deepening conflict and humanitarian crises.
Lawrence Korbandy, IGAD's special envoy for Sudan, confirmed to Sudan Tribune recently the decision for Sudan to rejoin the organization, underscoring its importance as regional cooperation becomes ever more necessary during these turbulent times. Korbandy stated, "Sudan's return to the organization is crucia," highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to address the challenges facing the region.
The backdrop of Sudan's reintegration is rife with turmoil, as civil war has raged since mid-April 2023, establishing devastating consequences for the nation. The conflict erupted as part of efforts to integrate the RSF with the national army, which had been encouraged as part of the transition toward governance through elections. This initiative arose after Sudan's military undergone tumult following the popular uprising against longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir, culminating with his ousting in 2019.
Ironically, the military forces and RSF, which initially shared power post-uprising, turned against each other with the coup staged by the two factions in 2021. With accusations of war crimes from both sides, civilian casualties have mounted and humanitarian crises have visibly intensified, with reports indicating over seven million individuals displaced and thousands killed due to the hostilities.
Despite the grim scenario, Korbandy’s discussions with Sudan’s military authorities—including General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan—have paved the way toward reintegration, with preliminary agreements made during talks held last August. Among the future steps discussed, IGAD has invited Sudan to participate in a significant security conference set to occur this December, aimed at fostering operational capabilities within the framework of the IGAD Regional Cooperation and Coordination Mechanism against Transnational Security Threats (TSTs).
The necessity of this reintegration cannot be understated, especially when viewed within the current security and humanitarian landscapes. With both the Sudanese army and RSF continuing to engage in hostilities, reintegration can potentially sow the seeds for recovery efforts necessary to stabilize the region. Analysts suggest Sudan's cooperation with IGAD could also mitigate the impact of the conflict reaching neighboring countries, emphasizing the importance of regional alliances.
Nevertheless, this paradigm shift also begs the question of accountability. Human rights organizations continue to voice concerns about the conduct of both warring parties since the outbreak of the conflict, making it imperative for any cooperative measures to include strong safeguards for the protection of civilians and commitment to human rights.
Meanwhile, IGAD has faced criticism for its initially muted response to the violence and humanitarian crises ensuing from the war. Its intervention strategies will be put to the test as Sudan re-enters the fold of this regional body, making effective collaboration among member states indispensable now more than ever.
While efforts proceed for Sudan's reintegration, the overarching struggle for peace and recovery remains deeply intertwined with the very conflicts driving instability within the nation. Continued participation and cooperation from regional powers through IGAD may hold the key to unlocking necessary dialogues to bring about sustainable peace for the people of Sudan. It is through the strength of regional partnership and commitment to peacebuilding efforts where hope for the future can find its beginning, even amid present chaos.