Washington, D.C. - I am alarmed and worried about recent reports coming out of Sudan describing deteriorating political conditions and an increase of violence. The world's governments, including the United States, have moved too slowly to resolve the conflict in Sudan. And now, despite a negotiated ceasefire, we have received numerous reports of renewed killings and abductions, including attacks on aid workers and African Union peacekeepers.
The escalating violence is threatening humanitarian support for millions of people as international aid workers increasingly find themselves the target of violence. Last month, a squad supported by Sudanese government helicopters attacked a camp for displaced civilians in Darfur, killing 35. Days later, in West Darfur, an Arab rebel group abducted 18 African peacekeepers. Last week, two African Union peacekeeping soldiers were killed in an ambush along with two civilian contractors. Three other African peacekeepers were wounded during the same raid.
The Bush Administration's lethargic response offers little hope for success and sets no deadline for resolution. We must adopt a new approach that recognizes the urgency of the situation on the ground.
If the ceasefire is to successfully progress toward a fully implemented peace agreement, the US will need to play a more active role in increasing the influence and capabilities of the African Union troops. Currently there are 6,000 peacekeepers working to secure an area the size of Texas and containing a population approaching two million. By honoring its pledge to provide $50 million as part of the FY06 Foreign Operations bill for equipment and supplies, the Administration would do much to assist the efforts of the African Union.
The US should also work aggressively with the AU on expanding the mandate of the African Union peacekeepers. After more than a year, peacekeeping troops are still confused about their role in the region and the extent of their enforcement powers. While AU troops have been able to protect civilians in some instances, their mandate does not expressly include this important responsibility. As a result, their ability to protect civilians from violence has been extremely limited and varies from one contingent to the next.
Finally, the Bush Administration should pressure the Sudanese government to fully implement the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. That means the commissions and boards mandated by the peace agreement to oversee such contentious but essential issues as petroleum production and military operations must be established.
Sudan has been the locus of organized armed conflict for 20 of the last 21 years. Given that the Administration in Khartoum has demonstrated only token commitment to the goal of establishing a lasting peace, only the active, aggressive engagement of the United States will make it possible for the Sudanese people to one day be able to return safely to their homes.