US-backed talks to end the 16-month conflict in Sudan are currently taking place in Geneva, with the Sudanese army notably absent from the negotiations. The conflict, which began over control between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has had devastating effects on the lives of millions of Sudanese citizens.
Despite the absence of the army, a delegation from the paramilitary RSF group is participating in the talks. The United States, along with the African Union and regional body IGAD, is working to facilitate a political settlement to end the violence plaguing the country.
The question remains, however, as to whether or not a resolution can be reached without the presence of the army at the negotiating table. The role of the US in pressuring both sides to come to an agreement is also under scrutiny.
Guests on a recent presentation discussing the conflict included Alaaeldin Nugud, a surgeon and human rights defender, Hala al-Karib, the Regional Director of the SIHA Network, and Ahmed el-Gaili, a Sudanese lawyer and political analyst specializing in Sudan.
As talks continue in Geneva, the international community waits to see if a breakthrough can be achieved in ending the violence and bringing stability back to Sudan. The absence of the army from the negotiations casts doubt on the prospects of a successful political settlement, but the efforts of the US and other international partners may provide a pathway toward peace in the conflict-ridden country.
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