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Thursday, June 22, 2023 | Heavy clashes broke out between rival military factions in several parts of Sudan’s capital as a 72-hour ceasefire that saw several reports of violations expired, witnesses said.

Shortly before the truce ended  fighting was reported in all three of the cities that make up the wider capital around the confluence of the Nile: Khartoum, Bahri and Omdurman.

The Europe Peace Foundation is deeply concerned about the ongoing crisis in Sudan, where fighting continues to pose a significant threat to the fragile ceasefire. This persistent violence not only perpetuates human suffering but also hampers the delivery of much-needed humanitarian relief to those affected by the conflict. With over 1.3 million people displaced since the beginning of the fighting, urgent action is required to address this dire situation.

The Europe Peace Foundation firmly believes that a ceasefire is essential to halt the violence and create a conducive environment for peace and stability. We call upon all parties involved to immediately cease hostilities, exercise restraint, and engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully. Achieving a ceasefire requires the collective efforts and commitment of all stakeholders, both within Sudan and in the international community.

To effectively call for a ceasefire and work towards lasting peace, several steps can be undertaken. Here are some we have considered:

  1. Diplomatic Engagement: The Europe Peace Foundation advocates for intensive diplomatic efforts, involving regional and international stakeholders, to facilitate dialogue and negotiation between conflicting parties. Mediation and peace talks can provide a platform for resolving grievances, addressing the root causes of the conflict, and reaching mutually acceptable agreements.
  2. Humanitarian Assistance: It is crucial to ensure the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of affected communities. Parties involved in the conflict must allow safe and timely access for humanitarian organizations to provide lifesaving assistance, including food, clean water, shelter, and medical care, to those in need.
  3. Civil Society Engagement: Empowering local civil society organizations, peacebuilding initiatives, and community leaders can foster reconciliation, and dialogue, and promote grassroots peacebuilding efforts. Involving diverse voices and perspectives in peace processes enhances inclusivity and increases the chances of sustainable peace.
  4. International Pressure: The international community plays a vital role in calling for an immediate ceasefire and supporting peaceful resolutions. Diplomatic pressure, economic sanctions, and the imposition of arms embargoes on parties engaged in the conflict can encourage compliance and discourage further violence.
  5. Transitional Justice and Reconciliation: Addressing past grievances and promoting accountability for human rights violations is crucial for long-term peace and reconciliation. Establishing mechanisms for transitional justice, truth commissions, and reconciliation initiatives can help heal wounds and rebuild trust among communities.