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Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal – Vol. 10, No. 12

Publication Date: December 25, 2023

DOI:10.14738/assrj.1012.16012.

Gabbay, S. M. (2023). The Role of Extremist Groups in Fueling Violence in Sudan. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal,

10(12). 174-180.

Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom

The Role of Extremist Groups in Fueling Violence in Sudan

Shaul M. Gabbay

Global Research Institute,

Posner Center for International Development, Denver, CO USA

ABSTRACT

In this paper we consider the role extremist groups play in perpetuating violence in

Sudan, a country long plagued by terrorism and political instability. We examine

the various groups’ ideologies, world views, and objectives, and discuss the

influence these groups have on the social, political, and economic welfare of Sudan.

Starting with an historical overview, we explain how extremism in Sudan first took

root. We examine the primary players and their regional and international

influences. Further, we examine the significant toll extremist-driven violence has

taken and continues to take on civilian population as well as on governance and the

economy. Furthermore, we study the ways Sudanese government has attempted to

disempower extremist groups and analyze the effectiveness of international

interventions. By analyzing the root causes of extremism as well as current events,

we seek to provide a thoughtful land nuanced understanding of this pernicious

issue. This study serves as a critical examination of the complexities surrounding

extremist violence in Sudan, contributing to the broader discourse on

counterterrorism and peacebuilding in conflict-prone regions.

Keywords: Sudan, terrorism, extremism, Janjaweed, genocide, internal displacement.

INTRODUCTION

Sudan, a nation with a rich history and diverse cultural tapestry, has been plagued by ongoing

conflicts fueled, in part, by extremist groups. These conflicts have not only shaped the country's

political landscape but have also deeply affected its socio-economic development. The recent

years have seen a surge in violence, much of which is attributed to the activities of various

extremist factions. Understanding the role these groups play in Sudan's unrest is crucial for

grasping the broader implications of the nation's struggle for stability and peace.

This paper seeks to examine the influence and impact of extremist groups in Sudan. It will

explore the historical context that gave rise to these groups, their ideologies, objectives, and the

methods they employ to perpetuate violence. The analysis will extend to the repercussions of

such violence on the civilian population, governance, and the economy. Furthermore, the paper

will assess the responses of the Sudanese government and the international community to

these challenges.

In exploring these aspects, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current

state of extremist violence in Sudan. By analyzing the factors that contribute to the proliferation

of these groups and the complexities of combating their influence, the study will shed light on

the challenges and potential pathways to a more stable and peaceful Sudan.

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Gabbay, S. M. (2023). The Role of Extremist Groups in Fueling Violence in Sudan. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 10(12). 174-180.

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.1012.16012

THE DIFFICULT TRANSITION FROM COLONIZATION TO GOVERNANCE

Sudan's journey through political turbulence and social upheaval has been long and complex,

deeply marked by a series of wrenching conflicts that have left indelible scars on its landscape

and its people. Understanding this historical backdrop is essential to comprehending the rise

and proliferation of extremist groups in the country.

The political and social landscape of Sudan, following its independence from (Anglo) Egyptian

rule in 1956, quickly succumbed to internal conflicts. This was due, in part, to cultural and

religious divides.

The northern region, including the capital of Khartoum, is predominantly made up of Muslims

who are ethnically Arab, while groups of Christians and animists live in the south. [1]

First Roots of Extremism

This period directly after independence was characterized by political instability and ethnic

divisions. The search for oil, which began in earnest in 1959 [2] added another layer of

complexity, intensifying competition among various factions for control over these valuable

resources. Foreign oil companies from France and the United States backed the economy of

Sudan. The resulting oil production would play a key role in the decades-long conflict between

the Islamic north and the Christian and Animist South, “where both sides fought over prime

oilfields located strategically along the borderline.’ [2]

The roots of extremism in Sudan can be traced back to these early conflicts. The first major civil

war, which occurred between 1955 and 1972, saw the emergence of several militant groups,

fueled by ethnic and religious divisions. The situation worsened with the second civil war from

1983 to 2005, leading to the formation of more organized extremist factions. During this period,

ideological differences, particularly around Islamic fundamentalism, played a significant role.

Extremism Grows

A critical point in Sudan’s history of extremism is the conflict in Darfur, which began in 2003.

This conflict escalated into a genocide, where government forces and militia groups, including

the Janjaweed, were accused of committing atrocities against ethnic groups in the region. The

genocide in Darfur is a stark example of how extremist ideologies can manifest into large-scale

violence against civilians, making it a critical piece of understanding the impact of extremist

groups in Sudan.

Additionally,Sudan's geographicalpositionandits relationshipswithneighboring countries and

global powers have also influenced the rise of extremism. The complex interplay of regional

politics and international interests has often served to exacerbate internal conflicts. The Darfur

genocide, as a pivotal event, will be further elaborated upon in subsequent sections that deal

with the impact of extremist violence and the response to it.

MAJOR EXTREMIST GROUPS IN SUDAN

In Sudan, several extremist groups have emerged over the years, each with its distinct

ideologies and objectives. These groups have played a pivotal role in the nation's ongoing

conflicts, significantly influencing its political and social dynamics.

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Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol. 10, Issue 12, December-2023

Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom

In looking closer at these extremist groups that have been the source of so much pain in Sudan,

we’ll consider the larger context in which they sprouted. Political marginalization, economic

disenfranchisement, and ethnic tensions have all contributed to their rise and persistence.

Now we’ll examine the specific ideologies and activities of each group, providing a clearer

picture of their role in Sudan's ongoing conflicts. We begin with an overview of the major

players.

Janjaweed (aka Rapid Support Forces)

The Janjaweed militia, who also go by the name RSF for Rapid Support Forces, primarily been

active in the Darfur region, is the most notorious extremist group in Sudan. Originally armed by

theSudanese government to quell rebellions in Darfur, the Janjaweed is accused of perpetrating

severe human rights abuses, including the Darfur genocide. Their actions have led to massive

civilian displacements and international condemnation.

Janjaweed Ideology and Objectives:

The Janjaweed militia, primarily composed of Arabized African tribes, has an ideology rooted

in Arab supremacy. Their objective initially was to suppress local rebellions in Darfur, but it

evolved into asserting dominance over non-Arab populations.

Area of Activity:

The Janjaweed are predominantly active in the Darfur region, but their influence has

occasionally extended to other areas due to their alignment with government forces. In recent

months and years, they have been active in the Blue Nile and South Kordofan regions.

Major Violent Incidents Attributed:

The Janjaweed are infamously known for their role in the Darfur genocide. They have been

implicated in mass killings, rapes, and the burning of villages, leading to the displacement of

millions of Darfuris. In more recent years, Janjaweed factions have been involved in violent

clashes with other armed groups and government forces, further destabilizing the region.

In the current war in Sudan which began in the spring of 2023, the Janjaweed have become

increasing brutal, increasing the use of intimidation and amping up their use of rape in front of

family member to further terrorize the people. [3]

Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (SLM/A) and Justice and Equality Movement (JEM)

Initially formed as resistance movements against the Sudanese government, the SLM/A and

JEM became prominent during the Darfur conflict. While their primary aim was to fight against

the marginalization of the Darfur region, some factions within these movements have engaged

in extremist activities and violent tactics.

SLM/A and JEM Ideology and Objectives:

These groups have also been involved in inter-tribal conflicts, contributing to the complex web

of violence in the region. The SLM/A and JEM emerged with ideologies centered on addressing

the political and economic marginalization of the Darfur region. Their objectives include

gaining greater autonomy and equitable distribution of resources for the people of Darfur.