Peacekeeping in Darfur
The UN Security Council in July authorised a major drawdown and reconfiguration of the United Nations-African Union Hybrid Mission in Darfur (UNAMID). The downsizing was expected. Nevertheless, the mission’s exit does not mark an end to Darfur’s 15-year-old conflict; rather, it increases the potential for a serious deterioration.
The government will persist with efforts to dismantle camps that still play host to 1.8 million displaced people, despite fierce resistance.
The weapons collection campaign will deepen tensions between government militias and non-Arab communities, potentially sparking fighting.
The army will focus on combatting Sudan Liberation Movement/Abdel Wahid rebels and loyalists of recently arrested militia chief Musa Hilal.
