International Institutions Concerned with Human Rights and Peacekeeping
Subject: Urgent Call to Stop the UAE and KSA from Promoting Violence in Sudan
Dear Honorable Representatives,
The Washington Center for Human Rights, an organization committed to promoting peace, justice, and the protection of human rights, writes to draw your attention to the concerning situation in Sudan and to call upon international institutions to take immediate action to halt the destructive influence of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in exacerbating violence and instability in the region. We firmly believe that by addressing these external factors, we can pave the way for a peaceful and prosperous Sudan.
Introduction: The Interference of the UAE and KSA in Sudan
Sudan, a country that has long struggled with internal conflicts and political instability, is now facing an additional challenge—the interference of external actors, particularly the UAE and KSA. While international attention has focused on addressing Sudan’s internal issues, it is crucial to recognize the detrimental role played by these countries, which has perpetuated violence and undermined the prospects for peace and stability. The Washington Center for Human Rights urgently calls upon international institutions to take a firm stand against the actions of the UAE and KSA and to demand an end to their promotion of violence in Sudan.
The UAE and KSA: Destabilizing Factors in Sudan
- Proxy Warfare and Military Support: The UAE and KSA have been providing significant military support to various factions in Sudan, fueling existing conflicts and escalating tensions. This involvement has resulted in a disproportionate increase in violence, loss of lives, and human rights abuses.
- Interference in Internal Affairs: The UAE and KSA have been actively interfering in Sudan’s internal affairs, undermining the country’s sovereignty and impeding its progress towards democracy and stability. Their actions have further deepened divisions and hindered the establishment of inclusive and accountable governance structures.
- Economic Exploitation: The UAE and KSA have pursued economic interests in Sudan, often at the expense of local communities and the environment. Their extraction of resources without proper regulation or fair compensation has fueled grievances, leading to social unrest and exacerbating existing conflicts.
- Sectarian Divisions: The actions of the UAE and KSA have exacerbated existing sectarian divisions within Sudan. By aligning themselves with specific groups based on religious or ethnic affiliations, these external actors have perpetuated tensions and contributed to the fragmentation of Sudanese society.
Examples of UAE and KSA Intervention
- Military Support and Arms Transfers: The UAE and KSA have been actively providing military support to various factions involved in the conflicts in Sudan. This includes the supply of arms, logistical support, and training, which have intensified the violence and prolonged the suffering of the Sudanese people.
- Influence over Political Processes: The UAE and KSA have exerted their influence to shape Sudan’s political landscape, often favoring factions aligned with their own interests. This interference has undermined the country’s democratic processes, impeding the development of an inclusive and representative government.
- Economic Exploitation: The UAE and KSA have engaged in economic activities in Sudan that prioritize their own interests over the well-being of the Sudanese people. This includes large-scale land acquisitions, resource extraction, and investment projects that often neglect the rights and livelihoods of local communities.
- Sectarian Divisions: By supporting specific sectarian or ethnic groups, the UAE and KSA have contributed to the deepening of sectarian divisions in Sudan. This has fueled tensions, undermined social cohesion, and hindered efforts towards national reconciliation and peacebuilding.
Urgent Actions Required
- Diplomatic Engagement: International institutions must engage in diplomatic efforts to hold the UAE and KSA accountable for their actions in Sudan. This includes condemning their interference, demanding an immediate cessation of military support, and urging them to respect Sudan’s sovereignty and the rights of its people.
- Arms Embargo: The international community should impose an arms embargo on the UAE and KSA in relation to their activities in Sudan. This will help prevent the further escalation of violence and the perpetration of human rights abuses.
- Economic Sanctions: International bodies should consider imposing targeted economic sanctions on individuals and entities responsible for promoting violence and instability in Sudan. These measures can help curb the financial support provided by the UAE and KSA to armed groups and foster accountability for their actions.
- Support for Peacebuilding Initiatives: International institutions must allocate resources to support comprehensive peacebuilding initiatives in Sudan. This includes providing financial assistance to facilitate national dialogue, strengthen institutions, and promote reconciliation among diverse communities.
- Humanitarian Assistance: Immediate humanitarian assistance should be provided to address the urgent needs of the affected populations in Sudan. International institutions should work closely with humanitarian organizations to ensure the provision of essential services, including food, shelter, healthcare, and education.
Conclusion: The Way Forward
The Washington Center for Human Rights urges international institutions to take a strong stance against the UAE and KSA’s interference in Sudan and their promotion of violence and instability. The actions of these external actors have exacerbated the already dire situation in Sudan and prolonged the suffering of its people. It is imperative that the international community acts swiftly to curb their influence and support Sudan in its pursuit of peace, justice, and stability.
We call upon international bodies to engage in robust diplomatic efforts, impose arms embargoes and economic sanctions, support peacebuilding initiatives, and provide humanitarian assistance to the affected populations. By doing so, we can contribute to the creation of a conducive environment for sustainable peace, the protection of human rights, and the promotion of stability in Sudan.
The Washington Center for Human Rights stands ready to collaborate with international institutions, governments, and civil society organizations to ensure the realization of these urgent measures. Let us work together to put an end to the UAE and KSA’s promotion of violence and contribute to a brighter future for the people of Sudan.
Sincerely,
Washington Center for Human Rights