Limited progress in Sudan crisis talks as SAF opts for virtual participation

Hind Al Soulia - Riyadh - Saudi Gazette report

GENEVA — Efforts to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan have faced setbacks as the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) opted to participate only virtually in crucial talks held in Switzerland.

This decision, seen as a missed opportunity for more substantial progress, has limited the effectiveness of negotiations aimed at alleviating the suffering caused by the 16-month-long conflict between the SAF and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The talks, which began on August 15, 2024, brought together an international coalition under the Aligned for Advancing Lifesaving and Peace in Sudan (ALPS) Group. Representatives from the United States, Switzerland, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union, and the United Nations convened with the goal of building on previous efforts, including the Jeddah process, to secure a lasting ceasefire and improve humanitarian access.

Despite the SAF's limited engagement, the ALPS Group managed to secure some progress. Over the course of 10 days, the coalition reopened and expanded critical humanitarian access routes and received commitments to enhance the protection of civilians, particularly women and girls. A framework for monitoring adherence to the Jeddah Declaration and future agreements was also established.

Using a hybrid negotiation model that combined in-person, proximity, and virtual diplomacy, the ALPS Group engaged directly with both the SAF and RSF. This approach facilitated the delivery of emergency food, medicine, and services to millions of people in need.

Key achievements included guarantees from both parties for safe and sustained humanitarian access through vital corridors, such as the Western border crossing in Darfur at Adre and the Dabah Road, leading to Sudan’s Red Sea via Port Sudan. These routes are crucial for providing famine relief in areas like Zamzam Camp and other parts of Darfur.

The coalition also made progress toward opening an access route through the Sennar junction, with the United Nations conducting a feasibility study for safe air access to deliver humanitarian aid. However, the limited participation of the SAF was a significant hindrance, preventing the coalition from making more substantial advances, particularly in securing a national cessation of hostilities.

The ALPS Group emphasized the urgency for both warring parties to implement the Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect Civilians, signed on May 11, 2023, and to adhere to recent United Nations Security Council Resolutions.

The coalition called for an immediate halt to attacks on humanitarian operations and essential services, including agricultural fields and food-related businesses.

In Switzerland, the ALPS Group presented a comprehensive plan to resume negotiations and address the challenges in implementing existing commitments. While the RSF sent a senior delegation to engage in the talks, the SAF’s decision to not attend in person was seen as a barrier to achieving more significant outcomes.

Nevertheless, the ALPS Group remains committed to future rounds of discussions, with the aim of achieving a national cessation of hostilities and securing humanitarian access across all regions of Sudan.

The coalition reiterated its dedication to continuing the progress made, despite the obstacles, and stressed the importance of integrating the voices of women and youth in broader efforts to improve humanitarian access and end the conflict.

The ALPS Group also called on the international community to provide financial support for the humanitarian response in Sudan, echoing appeals made during the April 2024 Paris conference.

The talks in Switzerland were held under the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with Switzerland hosting the discussions. The coalition’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to implement the Jeddah Declaration and bring relief to the millions affected by the ongoing crisis in Sudan.