Delegations from both warring factions in Sudan have arrived in Geneva for discussions mediated by a UN envoy.

However, according to the United Nations, one side has yet to attend the meetings, raising concerns about the progress of the peace efforts.

The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, pits the Sudanese regular army, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appointed Ramtane Lamamra as his personal envoy for Sudan.

Lamamra extended invitations to both factions for talks in Geneva, aimed at addressing humanitarian aid and civilian protection, stated UN spokeswoman Alessandra Vellucci during a media briefing.

Despite both delegations being in Geneva, Vellucci noted that one party did not attend the initial discussions on Thursday. She did not specify which delegation was absent.

The talks are being conducted in a “proximity format,” where Lamamra meets separately with each delegation in different rooms. This approach means that the two delegations will not engage directly with each other.

“The personal envoy has started the discussion; indeed, one of the parties didn’t show up, but they are here in Geneva,” Vellucci confirmed.

She added, “I can’t give you the details on which warring party has showed up or not.”

She emphasized the importance of participation, urging both parties to join the discussions. The talks are being held in Geneva, including some sessions at the UN’s Palais des Nations headquarters, with no end date set.

UN Security Council Resolutions Aim to Aid Sudan Civilians

The peace talks follow two UN Security Council resolutions on Sudan passed earlier this year. These resolutions focus on ensuring the distribution of humanitarian assistance to those in need across Sudan and exploring options to protect civilians.

“The discussions seek to identify avenues for advancement of the identified humanitarian and protection of civilians measures, through possible local ceasefires, as requested by the Security Council,” Vellucci explained.

The delegations are composed of senior representatives from the warring factions, including experts in humanitarian aid, security, and military affairs.

“The humanitarian situation in Sudan is deteriorating by the day, so we really need to look at the devastating impact this has on the civilian population — and we urge the delegations to rise up to this challenge and engage in constructive discussions.”
Alessandra Vellucci

Lamamra, 72, is a seasoned diplomat with a notable background. He served as Algeria’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister and was the African Union’s commissioner for peace and security from 2008 to 2013.

The conflict in Sudan has had catastrophic consequences, with the United Nations reporting tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of over 10 million people.

A recent UN-backed report indicated that nearly 26 million people, or just over half of the population, are facing severe food insecurity.

As the humanitarian crisis worsens, the international community hopes for a breakthrough in Geneva that could pave the way for peace and stability in Sudan.

The urgency for effective dialogue and tangible solutions is paramount to alleviate the suffering of millions of Sudanese civilians caught in the crossfire.