Political Science Observations

Historical Origins of the Sudan Crisis

Understanding the complex historical factors that led to ongoing conflicts in Sudan

Overview

The historical origins of the Sudan crisis are deeply rooted in colonial legacy, ethnic and religious divisions, economic disparities, and prolonged political instability. This presentation breaks down the key historical factors and events that have contributed to the ongoing conflicts in Sudan.

Colonial Era (19th–20th Centuries)

Sudan was under Anglo-Egyptian colonial rule from 1899 to 1956. The British administered the north and south separately, favoring the Arab-Muslim north while marginalizing the predominantly Christian and animist south. This policy entrenched regional inequalities and sowed seeds of division.

First Civil War (1955–1972)

Sparked by southern rebellion against northern political and economic dominance. Ended with the Addis Ababa Agreement (1972), granting southern autonomy. However, tensions persisted due to unaddressed grievances.

Second Civil War (1983–2005)

Reignited when President Nimeiry imposed Sharia law nationwide and revoked southern autonomy. The Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) led a rebellion, resulting in 2 million deaths and 4 million displaced. Ended with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (2005).

Comprehensive Peace Agreement (2005)

Promised a referendum on southern independence, which eventually led to the creation of South Sudan in 2011. However, many issues remained unresolved, contributing to ongoing tensions.

Darfur Conflict (2003–present)

Ethnic tensions between Arab herders and non-Arab farmers were exploited by the government, leading to genocide in the 2000s. The Janjaweed militia, formed to suppress rebellions, evolved into the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Political Instability (2019–present)

The 2019 revolution raised hopes for democracy, but military-paramilitary rivalry undermined the transition. The 2021 coup led by Generals Burhan (SAF) and Hemedti (RSF) dissolved the civilian government, escalating tensions.

Key Factors in the Sudan Crisis

Colonial Legacy

The British colonial policy of administering north and south separately created structural inequalities and divisions that persist to this day.

Economic Disparities

Southern Sudan, though resource-rich (especially in oil), remained economically marginalized. Revenue distribution was skewed toward the north.

Religious & Ethnic Divisions

Northern Sudan, dominated by Arab-Muslim identity, historically imposed Islamic laws on non-Muslim southerners and peripheral regions.

Militarization

The rise of paramilitary groups like the Janjaweed and RSF has contributed to ongoing violence and instability.

Political Instability

Repeated coups and prolonged military rule have prevented stable democratic transitions and lasting peace.

Foreign Intervention

Regional and global powers have fueled the conflict by supplying arms and backing different factions.

Conclusion

The Sudan crisis stems from a toxic blend of colonial-era policies, religious-ethnic stratification, economic exploitation, and militarization. Repeated failures to address these root causes have perpetuated cycles of violence, making Sudan one of the world's most protracted humanitarian disasters.