AU Struggles to Impact Sudan Peace Efforts

The African Union (AU) has dispatched a delegation to Sudan in a crucial effort to mediate a ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian access, amidst a protracted conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions. This initiative, mandated by the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC), aims to revive political processes that could stabilize the war-torn nation.

The delegation's visit occurs amid a shifting military landscape. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have regained significant ground in Khartoum, altering the dynamics but not yet securing a decisive victory. Meanwhile, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue to assert control over substantial territories in Darfur. The volatile region of Kordofan links these battlegrounds, intensifying strategic complexities for the AU.

Central to the PSC’s mission is fostering a ceasefire and enabling humanitarian aid, while emphasizing an inclusive political dialogue beyond the competing armed factions. After the collapse of the country's transition framework following the 2019 overthrow of Omar al-Bashir and subsequent military maneuvers, establishing durable peace necessitates more than merely curbing hostilities.