Severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan

Source: The post severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan has been created, based on the article “A crisis in WANA that no one talks about” published in “The Hindu” on 2nd August 2024 

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- international relation- Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests 

Context: The article discusses the severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan due to a conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Force (RSF). It highlights the devastating impact on the population, foreign involvement, and India’s interests in Sudan. 

For detailed information on Sudan conflict read this article here 

What is the Current Situation in Sudan? 

1. In 2023, Sudan experienced a violent conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF), led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Force (RSF), led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. 
2. This conflict resulted in approximately 150,000 deaths and displaced nearly 10 million people, a fifth of the country’s population. 
3. This situation is worse than the crisis in Gaza, with Sudan now facing potential famine and epidemics like cholera.

What is the History of Conflict in Sudan? 

1. Sudan has a history of conflict and misgovernance since its independence in 1956, including 15 military coups and two civil wars. 
2. The RSF, originally known as the Janjaweed militia, has been involved in long-term conflict in Darfur, leading to over 200,000 deaths and displacing two million people. 
3. The current crisis began after the military ousted dictator Omar Hassan al-Bashir in 2019, with subsequent failed attempts at creating a stable civilian-military government.

What is the Role of Foreign Interests? 

1. Foreign countries have taken sides in Sudan’s conflict for strategic and financial reasons. 
2. Egypt and Iran support the SAF, while the UAE and Russia’s Wagner group back the RSF. 
3. Sudan’s resources, such as crude oil, gold, and fertile land, have drawn foreign interest. 
4. Despite international efforts, including from Saudi Arabia and the U.S., to mediate a ceasefire, the conflict continues.

What are India’s Interests in Sudan? 

1. India has significant stakes in Sudan. In 2022-23, India’s direct trade with Sudan was $2,034 million, mostly in India’s favor. 
2. India also made its first major investment abroad in Sudan, worth nearly $2.3 billion. Additionally, India has committed nearly $700 million in lines of credit to Sudan. 
3. The ongoing conflict threatens these interests and could revive Islamic militancy, posing further risks to India

Question for practice: 

Discuss the impact of the Sudan conflict on India’s economic and strategic interests in the region.