The Role of Gold in Sudan’s Civil Conflict and its International Implications
The conflict in Sudan, exacerbated by the illicit gold trade, sees military factions funding their war efforts at the expense of civilian lives. Declan Walsh from The New York Times emphasizes that the wealth generated from gold smuggling supports the rapid militarization of the RSF, with significant sums ending up in the UAE despite evidence of war crimes. UN Secretary-General António Guterres calls for an urgent ceasefire.
As the ongoing conflict in Sudan escalates, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has reiterated the need for an immediate ceasefire between the military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Declan Walsh, the chief Africa correspondent for The New York Times, discusses how the fighting is exacerbated by the illicit gold trade, with both factions smuggling Sudan’s gold riches to finance their operations. This wealth is predominantly flowing to the United Arab Emirates, which continues to support the RSF despite documented evidence of the group’s involvement in war crimes. Walsh notes, “Gold is really at the heart of the RSF’s ascent to power.”
The conflict in Sudan, which has intensified since April 2023, is marked by ruthless violence between the Sudanese military and the RSF. The illicit gold trade has emerged as a critical funding source for both factions, complicating efforts for peace and stability in the region. The wealth generated from this trade primarily supports the acquisition of military equipment, further prolonging the hostilities and contributing to significant humanitarian crises in Sudan. The UAE’s role as a haven for this gold trade adds another layer of complexity to the situation, raising concerns over international accountability for war crimes.
In conclusion, the civil war in Sudan, driven by the illegal gold trade, has resulted in immense suffering and loss of life. The ongoing support of the UAE for the RSF, which is compounded by indications of war crimes, highlights the intricate financial networks fueling the conflict. A sustained international effort is necessary to address the root causes and restore peace to the region while holding violators accountable.
Original Source: www.democracynow.org
