Model UN Background Guide

Committee: Security Council
Topic: Sudan
Conference Year: 2026

Topic Background

Sudan has been a focal point of international concern for decades due to its complex internal conflicts, humanitarian crises, and political instability. Historically, Sudan’s challenges stem from ethnic, religious, and regional divisions exacerbated by colonial legacies and post-independence governance struggles. The Darfur conflict, which began in 2003, drew global attention due to widespread atrocities and allegations of genocide, leading to international interventions and sanctions.

In 2011, the secession of South Sudan created a new geopolitical dynamic, but unresolved issues such as border demarcation, oil revenue sharing, and the status of contested regions (notably Abyei) have perpetuated tensions. Since then, Sudan has also faced internal conflicts in regions like Blue Nile and South Kordofan, where marginalized groups have clashed with the central government.

More recently, the overthrow of long-time President Omar al-Bashir in 2019 marked a turning point, raising hopes for democratic transition. However, the transitional government has struggled with economic crises, protests, and ongoing violence, including clashes between the military and paramilitary forces, as well as intercommunal conflicts. The situation deteriorated further in 2023 with a violent power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), plunging the country into armed conflict and triggering a severe humanitarian emergency.

The Security Council’s renewed focus on Sudan in 2026 reflects the urgent need to address the ongoing conflict’s regional destabilization effects, humanitarian access constraints, and the international community’s efforts to support peacebuilding and political transition. The risk of state collapse, refugee flows into neighboring countries, and threats to international peace and security make Sudan a critical agenda item.

Key Actors

States

• Sudan: The central actor, with the transitional government and military factions vying for control.
• South Sudan: Shares a long border and has vested interests in stability and resource management, often mediating Sudanese conflicts.
• Egypt: Concerned with Nile water security and regional influence; supports stability in Sudan to safeguard its strategic interests.
• Ethiopia: Neighboring state affected by refugee flows and security spillovers, also involved in regional mediation efforts.
• United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia: Regional powers providing political and military support to various factions, influencing Sudan’s internal dynamics.
• United States and European Union: Key actors pushing for democratic transition, human rights, and humanitarian aid.

International Organizations

• United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) / United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS): The UN’s peacekeeping and political mission supporting transition, conflict resolution, and humanitarian coordination.
• African Union (AU): Active in mediation and conflict resolution, promoting African-led solutions.
• Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD): Regional bloc facilitating dialogue and peace negotiations.
• International Criminal Court (ICC): Holds indictments against former Sudanese leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity, influencing accountability dynamics.

Bloc Positions

1. Western Democracies (United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, EU members)

• Emphasize human rights, democratic governance, and accountability for atrocities.
• Support robust UN mandates with peacekeeping and political missions.
• Advocate for sanctions against spoilers and support for civilian protection.
• Push for humanitarian access and international aid.

2. Regional Powers and Neighbors (Egypt, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Uganda)

• Prioritize regional stability and security.
• Often advocate for negotiated political settlements to avoid spillover conflicts.
• Egypt and Ethiopia emphasize control over Nile water resources and border security.
• May resist strong punitive measures that could destabilize Sudan further.

3. Gulf States (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar)

• Support factions aligned with their strategic interests, sometimes providing military or financial backing.
• Prefer solutions that maintain influence over Sudan’s political landscape.
• Often promote counterterrorism cooperation and economic investments.
• May be skeptical of extensive UN intervention that limits their leverage.

4. Non-Aligned and Developing Countries (China, Russia, India, Brazil, South Africa)

• Advocate for respect of sovereignty and non-interference.
• Support political dialogue over sanctions or military intervention.
• Emphasize development, reconstruction, and humanitarian support.
• China and Russia often call for balanced approaches that protect their economic interests and investments in Sudan.

Past UN Action

• Resolution 1590 (2005): Established the UN Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) to support the Comprehensive Peace Agreement implementation.
• Resolution 1769 (2007): Authorized the African Union-UN Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) to protect civilians.
• Resolution 2429 (2018): Extended and adjusted UNAMID’s mandate amid ongoing conflict in Darfur.
• Resolution 2524 (2020): Established UNITAMS to support Sudan’s political transition and peacebuilding efforts.
• Resolution 2620 (2022): Addressed sanctions and arms embargoes related to Sudanese conflict actors.
• Numerous reports by the Secretary-General have highlighted humanitarian crises, human rights violations, and progress/challenges in peace processes.

Questions a Resolution Should Answer

1. How can the Security Council effectively support the cessation of hostilities between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces?
2. What measures should be taken to ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access across conflict zones?
3. How can the UN mandate be adjusted or strengthened to better support political transition and civilian protection?
4. What role should regional organizations like the African Union and IGAD play in mediation and peace enforcement?
5. Should the Security Council consider targeted sanctions or arms embargoes against spoilers of peace?
6. How can the international community support accountability for war crimes and human rights violations without undermining peace efforts?
7. What strategies can be implemented to address the refugee crisis and cross-border security risks affecting neighboring states?

Further Reading

• UN Documents: Official Security Council resolutions, Secretary-General reports on Sudan, and documents from UNITAMS and UNAMID provide authoritative insights into UN mandates, peacekeeping operations, and political developments. These sources offer detailed accounts of the Council’s actions and assessments of the situation on the ground.

• Think-Tank Reports: Research from institutions such as the International Crisis Group, Chatham House, and the Brookings Institution offers in-depth analysis of Sudan’s political dynamics, conflict drivers, and international responses. These reports often include policy recommendations and scenario assessments useful for understanding the complexities of the crisis.

• News Outlets: Reputable international and regional news organizations like Al Jazeera, Reuters, and BBC provide up-to-date coverage of Sudan’s evolving conflict, humanitarian conditions, and diplomatic efforts. These sources help track real-time developments and public reactions relevant to Security Council deliberations.

This background guide aims to equip delegates with a comprehensive understanding of Sudan’s multifaceted crisis, the geopolitical stakes involved, and the Security Council’s role in fostering peace and stability in the region.